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Jen Elder, M.Sc. SAMHSA SOAR Technical Assistance Center Policy Research Associates, Inc.

Expediting Access to Social Security Disability Benefits for People Experiencing Homelessness : SAMHSA's SOAR P rogram. Jen Elder, M.Sc. SAMHSA SOAR Technical Assistance Center Policy Research Associates, Inc. Presenter Disclosure.

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Jen Elder, M.Sc. SAMHSA SOAR Technical Assistance Center Policy Research Associates, Inc.

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  1. Expediting Access to Social Security Disability Benefits for People Experiencing Homelessness: SAMHSA's SOAR Program Jen Elder, M.Sc. SAMHSA SOAR Technical Assistance Center Policy Research Associates, Inc.

  2. Presenter Disclosure • The following personal financial relationships with commercial interests relevant to this presentation existed during the past 12 months: No relationships to disclose

  3. SOAR Technical Assistance Initiative • SOAR stands for SSI/SSDI Outreach, Access and Recovery • Focus is on people who are homeless or at risk for homelessness • Sponsored by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) in collaboration with the Social Security Administration (SSA) since 2005 • All 50 states currently participate; no direct funding provided to states

  4. The Challenge • Only about 10-15 percent of homeless adults are approved on initial application • Only 29 percent of all applicants are approved on initial application • Appeals can take a year or more • Many people give up and do not appeal

  5. As of June 2012, 48 states reported outcomes: More than 15,025 individuals were approved for SSI/SSDI on initial application 66% approval rate on average, in an average of 98 days In 2012 alone, SSI/SSDI brought at least $142 million into the state and local economies of these states $9,093 Medicaid reimbursement per SSI approved application What We Know Is Possible…

  6. The SOAR Model • Establish a process for filing SSI/SSDI applications with Social Security • In-person or online training on how to document disability • Case managers actively assist applicants and develop evidence • Submit a comprehensive and complete SSI/SSDI application • Reduces Consultative Exams and appeals

  7. SOAR Best Practices • Utilize strategic planning meeting to build collaboration among stakeholders • Identify local leadership and create a steering committee • Establish dedicated SOAR benefit specialist positions • Ensure quality review of applications • Track and report outcomes

  8. Funding and Sustainability • Projects for Assistance in Transition from Homelessness (PATH) • AmeriCorps State/VISTA programs • Hospital collaborations • Foundation/private funding

  9. The Affordable Care Act and SOAR • The Affordable Care Act only provides access to Medicaid • Income supports are critical for safe and stable housing, which in turn lead to better health outcomes • Combine Medicaid enrollment and SOAR outreach efforts • Incorporate SOAR case managers into Health Homes and partner with Community Navigators

  10. The Future of SOAR • Bring SOAR to new communities • Online curriculum will help us reach rural and underserved areas • Increase outreach to organizations serving veterans • Expand SOAR in reentry efforts to prevent homelessness upon release from incarceration • Partner with housing initiatives

  11. Get Involved with SOAR • www.prainc.com/soar

  12. For More Information Presented by: Jen Elder, M.Sc. Senior Project Associate SAMHSA’s SOAR Technical Assistance Center Policy Research Associates, Inc. 518-439-7415 soar@prainc.com

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