This issue brief from the Center for Health Care Strategies describes how accountable care organizations (ACOs) funded by state Medicaid programs are supporting the delivery of social services as part of a comprehensive strategy to improve health care quality and reduce costs. Given the often overwhelming prevalence of social needs facing Medicaid populations, including housing, transportation, and nutrition, aligning social services and supports with health care delivery is critical. Many states recognize the connection between social determinants of health and health care utilization and outcomes. The issue brief was funded by The Commonwealth Fund.
State Medicaid programs are supporting the development of infrastructure that can effectively integrate social services with clinical care through program requirements, financial incentives, and data‐sharing arrangements within ACO initiatives. Examples from Colorado, Maine, Minnesota, New York, Oregon, Vermont, and Washington are described, including health homes, community health teams, and behavioral health integration.
Ignatius Bau 