Blog

According to the World Health Organization, approximately 14% of adults aged 60 and over live with a mental disorder. Mental health conditions among older people are often underrecognized and undertreated, and the stigma surrounding these conditions can result in a reluctance to seek help. Recent Signify Health In-Home Health Evaluation (IHE) results validated the risk of mental illness in elderly adults.

At Signify Health, our mission is to build trusted relationships to make people healthier. Our national network of more than 12,000 clinicians works to help people gain a more comprehensive view of their health by conducting In-Home Health Evaluations (IHEs). During an IHE, clinicians identify chronic conditions, close gaps in care, and address social determinants of health, making it possible for health plan members to get connected to the right care for their unique needs. 

We’re proud to showcase the clinicians helping us build a more connected, effective care experience for all – and their personal stories that make this important work feel #ClosetoHome. This is Dr. Hawkin’s story. 

On Monday, December 18, Signify Health leaders Dana Lynch, Director of Network Services, Alex Blackstock, Vice President of Product Management, and Peter Yates, Vice President of Care Coordination Products from Signify Health, shared exciting findings from two recent research projects that illustrated that beyond providing members, health plans and members’ PCP a holistic view of a members health, the IHE positively impacts members’ experiences, diabetes care, and their connection to the care continuum. 

In-Home Health Evaluation (IHEs) are a comprehensive evaluation of the health status of MA members that help identify potential risks and tailor appropriate care plans. Signify Health Clinicians perform the IHE in the member’s home or virtually. 

In our recent white paper, ‘The Correlation Between Enhanced Member Experience and Improved Primary Care Engagement,’ we address peer-reviewed studies that demonstrated that Medicare beneficiaries who see a primary care provider (PCP) regularly have fewer hospitalizations and lower health care costs. Yet, certain factors make it challenging for some individuals, particularly older Americans, to see a PCP regularly.

Social isolation and loneliness are contributing to a growing public health crisis. TheU.S. Surgeon General’s Advisory on the Healing Effects of Social Connection and Community found that social isolation and loneliness increase the risk of premature death as much as smoking 15 cigarettes daily. They can also increase the risk of conditions like heart disease, stroke, dementia, anxiety, and depression.