Synopsis: One of the most significant social determinants of health is housing, which can lead to prolonged hospital stays and an endless cycle of episodic care. The Association of Cancer Care Centers (ACCC) is dedicated to highlighting programs that address this disparity to improve medical outcomes and restore stability to patients' lives. In this episode, CANCER BUZZ speaks with Deirdre Sekulic, associate director of social work at Montefiore Health System to discuss ways that HARP prioritizes patient outcomes to improve continuity of care.

"We really wanted to focus on coordinating health and housing and putting in a support system to manage those patients better, get them linked to primary care so they would have better health outcomes and also to improve the flow of people into the emergency room and into the hospital" – Deirdre Sekulic

"Housing is complex, never be afraid to ask people about their housing situation… ask them that in a very dignified manner, but to make sure to ask the question." – Deirdre Sekulic

Deirdre Sekulic, LCSW

Associate Director of Social Work

Montefiore Health System

Resources:

· An Innovative Program Addresses Housing Insecurity - Oncology Issues - https://bit.ly/3EJ2Pmr

· Montefiore's HARP Celebrates 15 Years - https://bit.ly/4iE0TcX

· Montefiore Health System - https://bit.ly/3Gw5nVA