Health

The Healthy Housing Initiative elevates Providence’s ongoing commitment to ending homelessness and invites other health care providers in Portland and throughout Oregon to join us.

In 2018, Providence’s eight hospitals in Oregon cared for more than 1,500 patients who reported they were homeless. Many of these men, women, and children, however, returned to the streets once they were well enough to leave the hospital. Wet pavement, cold cars, or tents tucked into bushes are never sustainable options for people struggling with health issues.

The connection between affordable housing and access to health care is undeniable.

Permanent housing leads to:

• Fewer emergency department visits
• Better connection to primary care
• Improved access and quality of care

We are most successful when we care for the whole person. Serving our most vulnerable patients means providing primary care, mental health services, transportation to appointments, or access to addiction support groups.

Our Objectives Are Clear.

• Decrease hospital readmission rates for newly-housed residents by at least 50%.
• Connect 100% of residents with primary care and behavioral health services within five years.