Health Concerns at Mortgage Counseling Sessions: Results from a Nationwide Survey

This brief summarizes the results of an online survey of mortgage counselors designed to better understand the extent to which they are aware of and know how to respond to the health concerns of individuals going through the foreclosure process.
 
 
 
Background
Previous studies suggest that the health of individuals and families undergoing foreclosure is at risk. In a study performed in the Philadelphia area, homeowners undergoing foreclosure were significantly more likely to be uninsured and to report skipping needed medical care due to its cost compared to the general population. Moreover, over one-third of homeowners experiencing foreclosure met screening criteria for major depression.  
 
Despite the health risks of households facing foreclosure, it remains unknown to what extent foreclosure mitigation counselors are currently aware of or helping homeowners to overcome the health dimensions of the foreclosure crisis. Working on the front lines of the foreclosure crisis, foreclosure mitigation counselors are wellpositioned to help connect public health officials with homeowners facing foreclosure.  Information about how mortgage counselors confront the health aspects of the foreclosure crisis can help policymakers and public health officials design programs to connect homeowners with needed health services and increase the capacity of mortgage counselors to make appropriate referrals. 
 
 
Read the brief