As we deepen our understanding of what truly impacts health and well-being, there’s a growing recognition that solving social needs plays a powerful role in overall health outcomes. While clinical interventions are undeniably crucial, so too are fundamental social supports — such as access to food, housing, and transportation. The line between healthcare and social care is increasingly blurred, highlighting the need for a more integrated approach.

Leaders across both healthcare and social care spaces are recognizing that both domains are not only important, but interrelated. To maximize their impact, thoughtful coordination is essential. In fact, the growing number of partnerships between health systems, health plans, and community-based organizations (CBOs) is transforming these blurred lines into opportunities — opportunities to provide more comprehensive, effective support for individuals and communities. Healthcare and social care can be stronger together when there’s a shared model for solving people’s needs. After all, the end goal is not merely transformation of the healthcare sector, but transformation of the individual, making sure that people’s lives are truly changing for the better.

This series will serve as a resource where experts across different healthcare industries share insights on collaborative efforts required to integrate social needs into healthcare systems to drive impactful and sustainable initiatives and transform people’s lives.