Acumen has invested in Reema whose platform helps support patients in accessing care and other resources that impact social determinants of health.
THE CHALLENGE: LACK OF ACCESS TO SOCIAL DETERMINANTS OF HEALTH
Medicaid provides health care to low-income Americans, but many Medicaid members struggle with health care access and other social and environmental challenges that exacerbate health outcomes. 58% of low-income Americans report being socially isolated, a factor that impacts their overall health and significantly increases the cost of care. Social determinants of health—like housing, food security, employment, childcare, and other essential needs—all impact an individual’s health and well-being. Yet, low-income people often lack the resources to navigate these systems and access their critical services.
THE INNOVATION: PERSONALIZED COMMUNITY-BASED SUPPORT
Reema offers Medicaid patients personalized, community-based support via text message, phone, and in-person service to help patients address their social determinants of health. By helping patients access services such as housing, food, and transportation, Reema improves their health and well-being and reduces costs for Medicaid plans.
“Technology solutions can create more efficient, and more informed outreach but they can’t build authentic relationships that drive real engagement,” said Justin Ley, CEO of Reema. “Our experienced Community Guides work one-on-one with the most underserved people in their communities when it comes to social care. It’s the latest data science combined with empathic, in-person relationships, a powerful combination that builds trust fast.”
WHY ACUMEN INVESTED: IMPROVING ACCESS TO HEALTHCARE
“Health care must start with the community. Reema’s Community Guides meet patients where they are and provide the hands-on support needed to connect patients to care and bridge unmet social needs. We are thrilled to back a business that blends high-touch and high-tech in improving outcomes for underserved communities,” says Acumen America Director, Amon Anderson.
Acumen’s investment will be used to help Reema launch its service with a large national Medicaid customer, including the cost of onboarding and servicing customers, administrative expenses, and paying team salaries.
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