Advocates call on state to strengthen supportive housing

(Harrisburg) — A report released this week calls on Pennsylvania to make changes to its Medicaid plan that could help the state fight its addiction crisis. 

 Advocates with the Housing as Health Campaign say there is a large body of evidence showing a combination of housing with services helps individuals with mental and physical disabilities live safely and stably in the community.

It’s a practice known as “supportive housing services.”

Antoinette Kraus, of the Pennsylvania Health Access Network, says a new report outlines gaps in services, especially for people with substance use disorders.

“So currently, if your primary diagnosis is substance use disorder, you are not eligible for supportive housing services under Medicaid. There’s gaps in support services that help attendants stay housed. There’s gaps in case management services and gaps in access to waiver services,” she said.

The campaign is recommending Pennsylvania change it’s Medicaid program to be in line with newer federal guidelines on supportive housing services