PHOENIX – The Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS) has officially launched its Housing and Health Opportunities (H2O) program. This groundbreaking initiative aims to expand housing services for specific AHCCCS members experiencing homelessness.
Starting October 1, the H2O program will focus on AHCCCS members with a Serious Mental Illness designation who are also experiencing homelessness or housing instability and have an identified chronic health condition or experienced justice involvement within 90 days.
“Housing is health care, and stable housing is essential for improving health outcomes,” said Carmen Heredia, AHCCCS director. “By focusing on housing support for AHCCCS members living with a Serious Mental Illness, we help ensure the basic needs of our most vulnerable members are being met.”
Unlike many traditional housing programs, the H2O program integrates health care services with housing support. This holistic approach addresses both the physical and mental health needs of participants.
With this integrated model, the H2O program aims to reduce the overall cost of care by decreasing the use of emergency services, hospitalizations and crisis interventions, and increasing primary care and preventive health services.
“The H2O program represents a forward-thinking model that other states may look to replicate,” said Liz da Costa, AHCCCS housing administrator. “AHCCCS is aiming to create a more integrated and effective system for addressing homelessness and health care needs.”
Through the program, eligible individuals can receive:
The AHCCCS Housing and Health Opportunities (H2O) program is funded through a combination of state and federal resources. This funding structure allows the program to provide short term rental assistance and supportive services to eligible members. The program operates under a federal waiver and demonstration project, which allows for innovative approaches and flexibility in service delivery. This can include unique interventions and support mechanisms not typically available in standard housing programs.
