The correlation between lack of proper housing and health issues has long been studied and found to be true. UnitedHealthcare, a company that works to provide better benefits for individuals in the healthcare system, has been bringing innovative ideas to healthcare since 2011 through its affordable housing initiative that just recently surpassed $400 million with the introduction of a new 65-unit housing center in Los Angeles.
Nearly 15 million Americans currently do not live consistently within proper housing, often making substandard housing unsafe, overcrowded, and exposed to a less healthy environment. UnitedHealthcare’s initiative seeks to help these families, as well as specifically address the needs of those most at risk that includes seniors, military veterans, and people living with disabilities.
For the past eight years, UnitedHealthcare has partnered with advocates and organizations to help the quality of life and health of low-income families by giving them greater access to housing, health care, and social services. To date the company has invested in 80 communities across the United States, building 4,500 new homes and offering ways for these individuals to better manage their health. Those enrolled in this program showed a reduction in health care costs of 50 percent.
As well as improving healthcare, the company aids new communities with existing amenities that help residents in the areas of education and employment. Resources such as social and support counseling, job training, academic support and adult education classes, childcare, and computer labs help residents build skills to enter the workforce.
“UnitedHealthcare’s investments in affordable housing recognize the important connection in managing the social determinants that influence well-being,” said Warren Hanson, Greater Minnesota Housing Fund president and CEO in a press statement. “It’s difficult for many families to think about a job, school or their family’s health without reliable housing. UnitedHealthcare understands that link and has been an important partner in making a positive impact across the country.”
