The Sconi

Starting February 1, 2025, Wisconsin will implement a new initiative aimed at providing housing support services to Medicaid members experiencing housing insecurity who are also dealing with substance use or mental health conditions. This move positions Wisconsin among the first states to leverage Medicaid funding for housing solutions to enhance health outcomes.

"This new program offers a support system grounded in the stability, dignity, and well-being that secure housing can provide," stated Kirsten Johnson, Secretary-designee of the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS). "For people who are struggling with substance use or mental health challenges, having a place they can call home can significantly improve their overall health and quality of life."

Eligibility for this benefit requires that Medicaid members be at least 18 years old, either homeless or at risk of homelessness, have a substance use or mental health condition, and meet certain income criteria. While the benefit does not cover rent or ongoing expenses, it provides continuous assistance and counseling.

The services will be delivered by organizations affiliated with Tribal nations or part of Wisconsin's Continuum of Care Program. This program collaborates with agencies to help individuals and families transition into stable housing. Providers must be enrolled with Wisconsin Medicaid to offer these services.

Bill Hanna, Medicaid Director, noted the difficulties faced by those experiencing homelessness: "People experiencing homelessness often rely on hospital emergency departments for care and may find it difficult to follow a doctors' instructions to manage their medical and behavioral health conditions. It's hard to plan to take your medicine at bedtime when you don't know where you're going to sleep at night. Assisting members in getting and keeping stable housing is an investment in the long-term success of their health care."

This initiative was mandated by the state legislature under 2019 Wisconsin Act 76. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services approved the benefit in November.

Further details about this housing benefit are available on the DHS website.

Questions from media representatives can be directed to DHSMedia@dhs.wisconsin.gov.