Trillium updates behavioral health services and expands operations across 46 counties

Bladen County residents are set to benefit from enhanced behavioral health services following a recent update from Trillium Health Resources during a government meeting on April 9, 2025. Trillium, the local management entity and managed care organization, is expanding its tailored plan benefit, which integrates behavioral health and physical health services for its members.

Cecilia Pierce, Southern Regional Vice President of Trillium, highlighted the organization’s mission to transform lives and build community well-being through partnerships. She emphasized that Trillium does not provide direct services but manages a network of providers to ensure that individuals receive the appropriate level of care. This approach aims to streamline access to necessary services for the community, particularly for those with mental health and developmental disability needs.

The meeting also addressed the significant growth of Trillium, which expanded its coverage from 28 to 46 counties in February 2024. This expansion has allowed Trillium to serve a population of over 3.1 million, with 51,000 members currently enrolled in the tailored plan. Despite the increase in Medicaid enrollment following expansion, there remains a notable number of uninsured individuals in the area, prompting Trillium to offer limited behavioral health services funded by the state.

To better address local needs, Trillium has established five regional boards and consumer advisory committees, ensuring that community concerns are represented. Bladen County is actively involved in these efforts, with local representatives participating in decision-making processes.

Financially, Trillium anticipates a significant increase in revenue, projecting to double its previous fiscal year’s earnings as it operates under the tailored plan model. However, Pierce noted ongoing challenges, particularly regarding underfunding for services aimed at uninsured individuals, which have not seen an increase in state benefits for over 15 years.

As Trillium continues to enhance its services and expand its reach, the organization remains committed to addressing the mental health and developmental needs of Bladen County residents, fostering a collaborative approach to community well-being.