Statement on Social Determinants Accelerator Act

Tom Nickels
Executive Vice President
American Hospital Association

July 25, 2019

Hospitals and health systems applaud the leadership of Representatives Cheri Bustos (D-Ill.), Tom Cole (R-OK), Jim McGovern (D-Mass.) and Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-Wash.) to address the social factors that affect individual and community health. We know that even if quality care is available, social determinants often prevent individuals from being able to access health care or achieve health goals. These social determinants of health often include safe and stable housing, access to healthy food, transportation, social connections, safety and environmental exposure.

The Social Determinants Accelerator Act would better align resources to improve outcomes within the Medicaid program by funding planning grants for public and private sector accelerator programs, and convening an inter-agency technical advisory council on social determinants of health. Hospitals and health systems recognize that addressing social determinants of health is central to driving value and advancing overall well-being. We look forward to working with Congress in our efforts to keep our communities healthy.

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