#United States #Austin #Findhelp #New Mexico Health Care Authority #social determinants

Introduction

Findhelp, a pioneering company in closed-loop referral management software, has announced an impactful partnership with the New Mexico Health Care Authority (HCA). This collaboration aims to roll out a statewide Closed-Loop Referral System (CLRS) designed to coordinate electronic referrals effectively. The initiative focuses on helping New Mexicans address social determinants of health (SDoH), a crucial aspect that significantly influences overall well-being.

Understanding the Closed-Loop Referral System

The innovative CLRS leverages Findhelp’s extensive network of community and nonprofit organizations. Its primary goal is to facilitate easy access for individuals in New Mexico to essential services addressing various health-related social needs, including food security, housing, and education. The platform helps in identifying and bridging gaps in service availability, ensuring that every New Mexican can receive the support they require.

Erine Gray, the Founder and CEO of Findhelp, expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration: "We are thrilled to work with the HCA and organizations across New Mexico who have already made an enduring impact on how people connect to services that address the social determinants of health.”

The Formation of New Mexico Health Care Authority

The New Mexico Health Care Authority, launched on July 1, 2024, marks a significant evolution in how health services are delivered in the state. The agency consolidates several health services departments, including the Human Services Department and the Developmental Disabilities Supports Division. This newly formed body is dedicated to leveraging innovative technology and data to enhance service accessibility.

Kari Armijo, Secretary of the New Mexico Health Care Authority, noted the importance of the initiative, stating, "This initiative is a vital step in connecting communities to essential resources like housing, food, education, and more." This reinforces HCA’s commitment to improving access to services that support the health and well-being of all New Mexicans.

Enhancing Community Access

Findhelp’s advanced analytics and reporting tools will significantly enhance the way state agencies serve their populations. The significance of understanding community needs and tracking service utilization cannot be overstated. Dana Flannery, New Mexico Medicaid Director, emphasizes this by mentioning that social care referral tools are crucial in delivering person-centered health care, ultimately boosting health outcomes for New Mexicans.

The collaboration comes at a time when addressing health-related social needs has gained recognition for accounting for a substantial part of an individual's overall health and wellness.

A Proven Track Record

The partnership signifies Findhelp’s ongoing success in connecting individuals with necessary social services. The platform boasts nearly 250,000 users in New Mexico alone, with 736,000 searches conducted through its interface. Moreover, Findhelp collaborates with 3,172 programs within the state, serving as a trusted avenue for residents seeking social care services.

Recognized for its excellence in integration and community support, Findhelp has consistently earned accolades, securing the title of leading SDoH network multiple times from KLAS, a respected healthcare research firm. This recognition underscores the platform’s commitment to prioritizing community needs and facilitating effective access to care.

Future Initiatives

Looking ahead, Findhelp continues to expand its partnerships with major health systems, government bodies, educational institutions, and community organizations to address SDoH comprehensively. By integrating social care into various facets of service delivery, Findhelp empowers not just health care providers, but also educational entities and community leaders to enhance the well-being of their constituents.

Conclusion

The partnership between Findhelp and the New Mexico Health Care Authority paves the way for a transformative approach to social health services in the state. This collaboration signifies a pioneering step in addressing the comprehensive needs of New Mexicans, ensuring that pivotal resources are efficiently aligned to enhance the health and social well-being of all individuals, especially those in vulnerable circumstances. As both organizations commit to fostering a reliable and compassionate support system, the anticipation surrounding this initiative indicates a brighter future for health care access in New Mexico.