In an innovative partnership aimed at addressing housing instability, AllCare Health, a physician-owned healthcare organization with over 30 years of service in Southern Oregon, has teamed up with Rentec Direct, a leading property management software provider, to simplify access to Oregon Medicaid’s Health-Related Social Need (HRSN) benefit.
The collaboration is set to provide landlords with an efficient platform to secure rent assistance for tenants in need, particularly those at risk of homelessness. By leveraging Rentec Direct’s property management software, landlords can now navigate the complexities of Oregon’s Medicaid program with ease, ensuring that both landlords and tenants benefit from the new state initiative.
The HRSN benefit is part of Oregon’s 1115 Medicaid Waiver for the 2022-2027 period. It is designed to address critical social needs that directly impact health outcomes, such as housing insecurity. Under the program, eligible tenants can receive rent assistance to help stabilize their living situations, reducing the risk of eviction and homelessness.
“Through our partnership with Rentec Direct, we’ve created a platform that simplifies the process for landlords to access payments when their tenants qualify for the HRSN benefit,” said Amy Burns, Senior Vice President of Clinical Operations for AllCare Health. “This initiative ensures that tenants have a safe and stable home, while landlords receive timely compensation. It’s a win-win for our community, and we’re fortunate to collaborate with a locally-based partner who shares our commitment to helping families in need.”
Eligibility for Rent Assistance
To qualify for the HRSN benefit, AllCare Health members must meet specific criteria, including:
- Being at risk of homelessness, as defined by state guidelines.
- Having an income at or below 30% of the area median income, as determined by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
- Lacking sufficient resources or support networks to avoid homelessness.
- Presenting with a housing-related clinical risk factor.
- Needing assistance to remain in their current housing situation.
- Having a lease or written agreement with their landlord.
A Streamlined Process for Landlords
One of the standout features of this partnership is the seamless integration of the HRSN benefit into Rentec Direct’s platform. Landlords can now quickly verify eligibility and receive payments directly from AllCare Health, eliminating much of the administrative burden typically associated with rent assistance programs.
Nathan Miller, President and Founder of Rentec Direct, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration. “Rentec Direct has always been focused on providing solutions that empower landlords and property managers. By integrating the HRSN benefit into our platform, we’re helping landlords not only support their tenants but also improve their own financial stability. This partnership is about creating meaningful change at the community level.”
A Model for Community Collaboration
This partnership between AllCare Health and Rentec Direct exemplifies how healthcare organizations and technology providers can work together to address social determinants of health. By making rent assistance more accessible, the initiative strengthens the safety net for vulnerable populations, ensuring healthier outcomes for residents across Southern Oregon.
As the program rolls out, both organizations hope to see broader adoption of the HRSN benefit, providing a replicable model for other communities facing similar challenges. For now, the residents of Josephine County and surrounding areas stand to benefit from this innovative approach to housing stability and health equity.
