In Greensboro, NC, Greensboro Housing Coalition is a non-profit that wants everyone to have safe housing, regardless of income levels. A common problem with low-income housing is cockroaches, bad insulation, and other conditions which lead to a much higher rate of asthma in children who grow up in such homes.

They are putting together a study to test whether improving the condition of these home would reduce the incidence of asthma in affected children (and the costs associated with the resulting frequent hospital visits) so much as to be a more cost effective use of Medicaid funds.

If the study finds that this is the case, and their experience suggests that will, the end goal is to enable doctors to prescribe home inspections and improvements, and for those actions to be paid for by medicaid/insurance. It would be a clear win/win: healthier children and lower costs across the board.

If this interests you, please consider a donation to http://greensborohousingcoalition.com . They are an excellent organization that will make efficient use of your donation.