September 12, 2024
Helena, Mont., Sept. 12, 2024 – The Frequent Users of System Engagement (FUSE) leadership team comprised of local non-profits and community health entities invites members of the community to attend its third annual Housing is Healthcare Summit on October 7-11 at the St. Peter’s Health Education Center. The free event will focus on the intersection of housing, healthcare, justice, Medicaid and legislative initiatives, and will discuss key issues and explore innovative solutions to address housing instability in Lewis & Clark County. Registration closes October 1.
Housing is Healthcare is a collaborative, community effort initiated by St. Peter’s Health in recognition of the interconnectedness between social determinants of health, such as housing stability, and healthcare outcomes. St. Peter’s Senior Director of Population Health Amy Emmert, RN says the program identifies individuals with frequent Emergency Room visits and housing instability, and pairs them with a Community Health Worker to offer tailored interventions and support through the St. Peter’s Population Health team, its Complex Care teams and other community resources.
“By addressing the root causes of health issues, such as unstable housing, FUSE aims to reduce strain on healthcare services and provide cost savings for the hospital and our community,” says Emmert. “We’ve seen a lot of progress and success in this space and we’re eager to share about it in hopes it inspires, educates and empowers those who attend.”
The five-day gathering hosts a packed agenda including a Landlord Appreciation Breakfast; an update on Helena Community Housing Projects; an overview of Medicaid expansion and the economic impacts to the community if not renewed; and a community conversation session encouraging open and productive dialogue about Helena’s housing challenges and how members of our community can work together to solve key issues. Click HERE to view the full agenda. Attendees can indicate which sessions they plan to attend during registration, and attendees will be given a raffle entry at the beginning of each session for the opportunity to win two cash prizes of $250.
“There is no denying that housing is a passionate topic in Helena which is why I encourage anyone and everyone - teachers, business owners, community leaders – to attend and have a voice at the table,” says Emmert. “Our goal is to create actionable plans and strengthen collaborations ensuring that the progress made during the week translates into tangible improvements for our community.”
About St. Peter’s Health - Housing is Healthcare:
St. Peter’s Health Frequent User Systems Engagement (FUSE) program, initiated through a Montana Healthcare Foundation Housing is Healthcare grant, integrates healthcare and housing stability to support high-need patients. Through community partnerships and proactive interventions, the FUSE program exemplifies St. Peter’s commitment to improving community health and well-being, setting a new standard for healthcare delivery in Montana.
The inspiration for the project stemmed from a recognition of the interconnectedness between social determinants of health, such as housing stability, and healthcare outcomes. Witnessing the challenges faced by individuals experiencing housing insecurity and frequent visits to the Emergency Room, St. Peter’s was inspired to develop a proactive solution that addresses both medical and social needs. The Housing is Healthcare grant provided the initial impetus, empowering St. Peter’s to launch the FUSE program and create a collaborative framework between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local stakeholders. This collective effort was driven by a shared commitment to improving the health and well-being of individuals and families in the community by addressing the underlying social determinants of health. Through innovative approaches and a dedication to compassionate care, the FUSE program exemplifies how healthcare institutions can lead efforts to build healthier, more resilient communities.