Headline
Evaluation of state Medicaid health home model programs details approaches for implementation and outcomes for enrolled members.
Background
Health home programs within Medicaid vary greatly by state and there is an interest in understanding these differences and state experiences with implementation. This evaluation captures insights from states that launched health homes programs through Medicaid, including implementation successes and challenges and observed impact of these programs on Medicaid spending.
Findings
Officials from 11 states were interviewed on topics including the use of federal funds, support provided to members with chronic conditions, behavioral health and primary care integration, access to community supports, and program sustainability. States shared that interdisciplinary care teams, member education and engagement, and connections with providers supported effective implementation. Challenges with implementation included accessing member data, difficulties integrating physical health, behavioral health, and support services, and limited providers to address health-related social needs. No significant increases in Medicaid spending were observed for Missouri’s health home program, which was the only state evaluated for spending due to changes in reporting systems and data lags.
Policy/Program Takeaways
States can use this report to understand common successes in implementing health homes for Medicaid populations with complex needs and adapt their models to address potential barriers.