Chicago House’s Versell Smith, Jr., Advocates for Increased Healthcare Equity at Illinois State of Reform Conference
CHICAGO, IL – Chicago House Chief Strategy Officer Versell Smith, Jr., recently joined a panel discussion with senior market executives and health policy leaders at the Inaugural Illinois State of Reform Health Policy Conference on June 8, 2023 in Chicago.
State of Reform brought together practitioners, thought leaders, and policy makers – each working to improve the health care system in their own way—for conversations to address the complex issues faced by the healthcare sector.
As a leading housing provider for individuals impacted by HIV and homelessness, Chicago House participation highlighted the critical need to advocate for equitable investments in Illinois communities and ensure that marginalized populations, including LGBTQ+ individuals, receive the necessary support and resources.
Smith joined a diverse panel of healthcare leaders, including; Kelly Cunningham, Medicaid Administrator, Illinois Dept. of Healthcare and Family Services; Ngozi Ezike, MD, President & CEO, Sinai Chicago, and Laura Zaremba, Principal, Health Management Associates, for a discussion on health equity and the 1115 waiver.
Smith spoke about Chicago House's ongoing advocacy efforts to expand housing support services, particularly in relation to Illinois' proposed 1115 demonstration waiver, and as the as the sole housing and healthcare provider representing LGBTQ+ populations on the panel, Smith continues to elevate the needs of communities most impacted by HIV.
The conference delved into a wide range of discussions, tackling pressing topics in Illinois' healthcare system. From rural healthcare challenges to workforce issues in hospitals and improving children's behavioral health, the conference fostered productive conversations among diverse stakeholders.
The proposed waiver holds the potential to cover vital housing support services for Medicaid enrollees, including intensive case management, housing navigation, home accessibility modifications, and more. Chicago House recognizes the transformative impact of these services in promoting housing stability and overall well-being. By highlighting the importance of medical respite, food and nutrition services, employment assistance, transportation, and community reintegration, Chicago House emphasizes the holistic approach needed to address the diverse needs of marginalized populations and work towards greater health equity.
Through participation in events like the Illinois State of Reform Health Policy Conference, Chicago House continues to amplify the voices of LGBTQ+ individuals and advocate for inclusive policies that prioritize equitable access to housing, healthcare, and support services. By championing these critical conversations, Chicago House remains dedicated to creating a future where everyone can thrive with dignity, respect, and opportunity.
ABOUT CHICAGO HOUSE
Chicago House and Social Service Agency has been on the forefront of reducing barriers for those affected by HIV/AIDS since the early years of the epidemic. Founded in 1985, Chicago House was the first HIV housing provider in the Midwest. It now serves nearly 3,000 individuals and families annually through expanded programming designed to holistically support individuals impacted by HIV/AIDS through housing, health, employment services, and the TransLife Care Program.