This fourth evaluation report on the Medicaid health home option focuses on progress and lessons learned in 11 states over the first two years of their programs. Created in the Affordable Care Act, health homes focus on high-cost, high-need populations, integration of physical and behavioral care, and care coordination and management extending beyond medical services to include social determinants of health. The Urban Institute is conducting the evaluation for the USDHHS Assistant Secretary of Planning and Evaluation. Overall, respondents agree the model is well-suited to serve the populations targeted, and early evidence shows promise for reduced inpatient or emergency department use and costs. The key lesson cited is the need to establish infrastructure for program operation and monitoring before initiation, so providers can focus on enrollee needs and program objectives.

Read the full publication here (leaving Urban's web site)