Embedding Social Determinants of Health in Health Plans

This case study presents findings from a Genpact research collaboration with HFS Research, focusing on how senior executives from 100 health plans in the US are integrating social determinants of health (SDoH) into their care management strategies. The study reveals that these executives possess a solid understanding of SDoH and are actively adopting solutions to enhance their care management programs. The executives express a strong willingness to invest in SDoH solutions aimed at reducing care costs and improving health outcomes. However, a notable disconnect exists in measuring the effectiveness of these solutions, with more emphasis placed on tracking engagement metrics rather than direct health outcomes. The report also identifies challenges such as data access and the complexity of managing multiple solutions as barriers to successfully embedding SDoH. Additionally, it outlines three essential building blocks for health plans to evolve into health services, emphasizing the importance of SDoH in achieving better population health and patient experiences.