A few weeks ago the federal government selected North Carolina as one of just two states to demonstrate patient-centered medical homes for Medicare beneficiaries, more commonly known as the “Medicare 646 Waiver.” Under the Waiver, the 14 Community Care Networks are charged with improving outcomes for persons with chronic conditions who are “dually eligible” for both Medicare and Medicaid.
In response to North Carolina’s role as a health care innovator, we must try new ways to deliver health care services more effectively and efficiently. Community Care Connections is one such innovation. This seven-county pilot program, sponsored by the Division of Aging and Adult Services in collaboration with the Office of Rural Health and Community Care, will strengthen the connection between local health and human service agencies and dually eligible adults.
The seven counties included in this pilot project are Buncombe, Chatham, Cumberland, Lincoln, Madison, New Hanover, and Orange.
Each county will pick one new initiative to help develop a better model for managing the chronic conditions of the dually eligible – for example, increasing falls prevention and education; implementation of medication management and behavioral health strategies in adult care homes; supporting transitions from hospital to home; and increased use of chronic disease self-management training.
The success of these new initiatives will help other North Carolina communities in the future through the establishment of best practices and will continue North Carolina’s status as a health care innovator for the nation.