Housing was a highlighted factor in the U.S. Playbook to Address Social Determinants of Health, a comprehensive set of actions to better social determinants of health (SDOH), which affect the health and well-being of all Americans.

The playbook, a central piece in this new initiative, emphasizes particular areas of impact. According to a news release, the playbook highlights the importance of housing as a key component of community health outcomes and supports U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) programs.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) was also cited as having vital programs in this regard, and their new Medicaid and Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) Health-Related Social Needs (HRSN) Framework will go hand in hand with HUD programs like Housing Choice Vouchers and homelessness assistance grants, according to a media release.

Collaboration between departments appears key in this approach. According to a news release, through the HHS and HUD joint Housing and Services Resource Center, the HUD can provide continuously updated advice on how to best use Medicaid to help cover housing related needs, and direct them to appropriate HUD programs. The two departments also plan to select up to four states to receive federal technical assistance through the Housing and Services Partnerships Accelerator in order to implemented joint Medicaid and HUD housing and health programs.

HUD's Secretary expressed enthusiasm for the initiative. "Housing is foundational to health and lifelong success. Today’s Playbook and suite of actions are important steps forward in our efforts to advance health equity," said HUD Secretary Marcia L. Fudge in statement. "HUD continues to work with our partners across the Administration and the country to coordinate the housing, health care, and supportive services that enable Americans to thrive. I encourage HUD grantees and partners to utilize the Playbook to inform their work and engagement."