WASHINGTON, D.C. – Matt Eyles, president and CEO of America’s Health Insurance Plans (AHIP), issued this statement following the introduction of the Social Determinants Accelerator Act of 2019, S. 2986 – a bipartisan proposal aimed at addressing social barriers to health such as housing, healthy food, and reliable transportation for Medicaid enrollees. The bill was introduced by Senators Todd Young (R-IN) and Debbie Stabenow (D-MI).
“70% of a person’s health is influenced by non-medical factors, including the conditions in which people are born, grow, live, work and age. Knowing this, health insurance providers are committed to building new solutions to address social barriers such as housing insecurity or social isolation, and improve the health of the people we serve.
“We commend Senators Stabenow and Young for their leadership and commitment to addressing social determinants of health. This proposal will strengthen the partnerships between Medicaid Managed Care Plans and community-based organizations to build effective solutions to tackle social barriers, drive value, and improve whole-person care for millions of Americans.
“We look forward to working with Congress, local policymakers, doctors, hospitals, and community leaders to improve whole person and community health, enhance quality of life, and drive down costs for everyone.”
About AHIP
AHIP is the national association whose members provide coverage for health care and related services to hundreds of millions of Americans every day. Through these offerings, we improve and protect the health and financial security of consumers, families, businesses, communities and the nation. We are committed to market-based solutions and public-private partnerships that improve affordability, value, access, and well-being for consumers. Visit www.ahip.org for more information.