New ASU Research Reveals How Medicaid Preventive Health Programs are Saving Money

As lawmakers seek new ways to improve healthcare, a recent study from Arizona State University highlights the benefits of investing in unconventional health initiatives. The research shows that early investments in health can lead to lasting health improvements and save money over time.

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services point out that a person’s health heavily depends on their environment—things like access to nutritious food, housing, and transportation. These factors, known as "social drivers of health," are crucial for overall well-being.

Professor Marisa Domino from the College of Health Solutions is investigating North Carolina’s Healthy Opportunities Pilots. This program aims to include non-medical services, like healthy food deliveries and housing help, which Medicaid funds can support. Domino’s insights could be impactful across the country.

Domino expressed surprise at how quickly health interventions showed positive results, especially compared to the lengthy processes often seen in healthcare.

In our chat, she shared her goals for the pilot study. They aimed to understand what happens when non-traditional healthcare items, like nutritious foods, are funded by Medicaid. By comparing three regions in North Carolina over nearly two years, they looked for changes in healthcare spending.

Her findings were promising. Initially, Medicaid spending rose as people utilized new services, like meal deliveries. However, spending later decreased to levels lower than expected without the program, saving about $85 per person per month. This suggests that while there’s an upfront cost, the long-term benefits and savings are significant.

For instance, a child with asthma might frequently visit the emergency room due to environmental issues at home. Programs addressing these needs could significantly improve their health and reduce healthcare costs.

Domino stressed the importance of investing in Medicaid to help those with limited resources. Many struggle with poor access to nutritious food and stable housing, leading to ongoing health challenges. By addressing these needs, we can lower the spending on emergency care, benefiting individuals, families, and taxpayers alike.

She also noted that Medicaid investments in preventative care can eventually minimize expensive emergency treatments. Innovative programs, like the Healthy Opportunities Pilots, allow states to experiment and learn from one another’s successes.

When asked about the risks of cutting Medicaid, Domino explained that such cuts can lead to higher mortality rates, while expanding Medicaid can actually improve survival chances.

The findings from North Carolina can set an example for the nation. While replication studies will clarify if other states would achieve similar results, there’s evidence that redirecting Medicaid resources to broader health needs may enhance overall health outcomes and save money.

This research is particularly timely as support for health programs is shifting. It underscores that upfront investments can yield significant returns in the long run, benefiting everyone involved.

For more details on social determinants of health, check out the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.

Source link