The Better Health Through Housing pilot project was launched in 2015 and initially provided housing for 25 patients with severe and chronic health problems. The hospital chipped in $1000 per month to house each patient, which was combined with federal housing subsidies to cover housing costs. The Chicago Center for Housing and Health, a local social service nonprofit, provided a case manager, health care coordination, and other support services to participants.

The program is one of a growing number of housing projects being supported by hospitals and health systems across the country grappling with the effects of a national housing crisis. The trend builds on a substantial body of evidence that permanent supportive housing can improve the health and well-being of people experiencing homelessness. They also aim to help hospitals meet payers’ demands to provide more value-based care for patients and the communities they serve.