Governor Maura Healey hosted a roundtable discussion on May 9, 2024, focusing on the intersection of housing and health care in Massachusetts. The meeting brought together health care leaders and community representatives to address the pressing housing crisis affecting various regions, particularly Worcester.

During the discussion, participants highlighted Worcester's severe housing challenges, noting it ranks as the third worst rental market in the nation. The city is experiencing a significant influx of residents from Greater Boston, which has led to increased demand for housing. However, this surge has resulted in a dramatic rise in rental prices and a critically low vacancy rate, making it difficult for both new and existing residents to find affordable housing.

One speaker emphasized the dual impact of the housing crisis on employment and health care access. As housing becomes less affordable, it complicates recruitment efforts for local businesses, as potential employees are moving out of the city in search of more affordable living conditions. This trend also affects health care institutions, as patients struggle to access services due to transportation limitations, particularly in western regions where public transit options are limited.

The conversation underscored the need for collaborative advocacy from health care institutions to address these challenges. Participants agreed that a unified approach could strengthen efforts to improve housing availability and affordability, ultimately benefiting both the workforce and the health of the community.

The meeting concluded with a call to action for stakeholders to work together to develop innovative solutions that address the intertwined issues of housing and health care, recognizing that stable housing is essential for overall community health.