Blue Cross Blue Shield prepares for statewide launch of child and family specialty plan

The Randolph County Board of Commissioners convened on June 2, 2025, to discuss several key issues impacting local health services and community projects. The meeting began with an update on the upcoming launch of the Child and Family Specialty Plan by Blue Cross Blue Shield, set for December 1, 2025. This plan aims to enhance services for Medicaid-eligible children and families, particularly focusing on foster care children who will transition to this new plan starting January 1, 2026. The county anticipates a decrease of approximately 10,000 Medicaid-eligible individuals as they move to this statewide plan, which could affect funding based on a per member per month allocation model.

Commissioners expressed concerns about the potential impacts of these changes on service delivery in Randolph County. While the transition is expected to bring enhanced services, officials noted that the remaining population under current plans should not experience significant changes. The discussion highlighted the importance of continuity in care, especially for vulnerable populations, as the county navigates these transitions.

The meeting also touched on the stability of the behavioral health system in North Carolina, with officials noting a period of relative calm in legislative changes affecting mental health services. The board acknowledged the efforts of staff in managing the transition from previous providers to Trillium, emphasizing the need for local involvement in behavioral health services to ensure effective support for residents.

In addition to health services, Mayor Fernandez of Seagrove presented a request regarding the completion of a local cannery project, which has already seen an investment of over $3 million. The mayor's appeal underscored the community's commitment to enhancing local infrastructure and services.

Overall, the meeting underscored the board's focus on ensuring that transitions in health services are managed effectively while maintaining support for local initiatives. The commissioners expressed optimism for stability in the behavioral health sector and the importance of local governance in addressing community needs.