Health-related social needs (HRSN)

On November 16, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) released the CMCS Informational Bulletin (CIB), "Coverage of Services and Supports to Address Health-Related Social Needs in Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP)." This guidance outlines a framework of services and supports to address health-related social needs (HRSN) that CMS considers allowable under specific Medicaid and CHIP authorities. These flexibilities, and accompanying safeguards to protect program and fiscal integrity, provide opportunities for states to improve consistent access to needed care, health outcomes, and health equity among Medicaid and CHIP enrollees by addressing HRSN in a manner that complements...

The Aging and Disability Business Institute, in collaboration with the Partnership to Align Social Care and the Camden Coalition, has released a new resource guide that emphasizes the importance of addressing health-related social needs (HRSN) and details the benefits of partnering with community-based organizations (CBOs) and community care networks for health plans. This comprehensive guide outlines how CBOs serve as powerful innovation partners, foster trust with members, offer a significant return on investment, provide greater efficiency in coverage through community care networks, and contribute to securing public contracts. This resource serves as a practical tool for health plans looking to establish meaningful collaborations with..