Health in Housing: Exploring the Intersection between Housing and Health Care is an important and pioneering study. Its findings contribute keen insights and evidence as we work toward elevating ongoing discussions on the intersection between health and housing into a clear national priority.
As a physician, Health in Housing speaks to what I see in my work every day: far too many low-income people who lack access to primary care and as a result seek treatment for chronic conditions at emergency rooms. For many of my patients, concerns about keeping up with doctor appointments and medications are far outweighed by trying to pay their rent on time or finding safe and stable housing.
An affordable home that connects people to opportunity through health care as well as good schools, jobs and transit is the foundation for a healthy, productive life. For many years, I have shared my fundamental belief that housing is a critical vaccine that can pave the way to long-term health and well-being. Securing affordable housing for vulnerable families with children, older adults and formerly homeless individuals is indeed the platform for increasing access to primary and preventative care. It is also a critical and necessary long-term investment.
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