Vaya Health gives Medicaid and recovery updates; commissioners ask for broader outreach

A Vaya Health representative briefed the Alexander County Board of Commissioners on Medicaid‑related programs, pilot projects and post‑storm recovery efforts and commissioners asked county communications staff to help publicize services more widely.

Zach Shepherd, representing Vaya Health, said the organization’s tailored plan, Total Care, manages physical, behavioral and pharmacy benefits for members diagnosed with moderate to severe mental‑health or substance‑use disorders or intellectual and developmental disabilities. Shepherd said Vaya has continued to expand its provider network, emphasized the tailored care management team that assists members with navigation, and described member perks that include support for wellness, pregnancy, GED attainment and non‑emergency transportation.

Shepherd highlighted a pilot called the Healthy Opportunities Pilot that uses Medicaid funding for non‑medical supports — housing, food and transportation — and said Vaya hopes the pilot expands statewide. He also noted a post‑Hurricane Helene award, the Hope for NC grant, which funds door‑to‑door recovery outreach and mental‑health supports in impacted counties.

Commissioners asked how to improve local awareness of Vaya services. One commissioner said the county’s single radio station and local newspaper limit reach and requested a joint outreach effort with the county public‑relations officer. Shepherd agreed to work with county staff on advertising and communications.

Shepherd also noted the state-selected Blue Cross Blue Shield operator for the child and family specialty plan serving foster‑care children and said Vaya would provide implementation timelines to counties as details are finalized. No county fiscal actions were requested or taken during the presentation.