Housing Connections
Chicago ranks 11th in the nation for the most homeless residents, with the second largest encampment living under viaducts less than two miles away from Swedish Hospital. The average life expectancy of a chronically homeless individual is 64 years, 15 years less than the average. University of Illinois Hospital data shows that in one year, 48 chronically homeless patients accounted for 776 emergency room visits, with healthcare costs 5 times more expensive than other patients.
Swedish Hospital’s Emergency Department noticed the patterns of recurring visits by the same chronically homeless patients. Seeking a more permanent solution, Swedish Hospital partnered with the Center for Housing and Health through the City of Chicago’s Better Health through Housing Program, and currently, with Lutheran Social Services of Illinois (LSSI), to reduce hospital visits of the homeless by providing permanent housing and services. Swedish Hospital provides social services for 16 chronically homeless individuals, including intensive case management and managed healthcare services.
One of Swedish Hospital’s core values is compassion conveyed by employees who seek not only to provide medical attention, but to care for the whole person. Brandon L., a man whose life spiraled out of control after the death of his mother and brother, is a participant in this program. Thanks to Swedish Hospital and community partners, he is now able to live in his own furnished room and become self-sufficient. He is also able to gain the support and accountability he needs through wraparound services.
Philanthropic support gives Brandon and others like him the chance to start again and live healthier.
Read more articles about Housing Connections.
If you would like to learn more, please contact Swedish Hospital Foundation at (773) 293-5121 or schfoundation@schosp.org.
Statistics
In cold weather, 5-10 patients will sit in the Emergency Department waiting room during the day and go to shelters at night
After providing housing, there has been a 99% drop in Emergency Department visits by the first 10 homeless patients in the Housing Connections Program
Similar programs have resulted in a 50% decrease in healthcare expenses for each participant