In a bold new approach to manage burgeoning deficit projections, North Carolina’s State Health Plan, led by Treasurer Brad Briner, is investing directly in the health of its members. Under Briner’s directive, the plan is seeing a strategic shift that could redefine how state employees, retirees, and their families engage with healthcare over the long term. This pivot could potentially curb the soaring healthcare costs that have loomed over state finance.
Addressing the Looming Deficit
Last year, when Dale Folwell, the former state treasurer, presented the financial forecast, it was a wake-up call. With the deficit projected to reach a staggering $1 billion by 2027, the urgency for intervention became clear. Briner’s first move was to increase premiums, a decision met with mixed feelings but deemed necessary to patch the fiscal gap.
Population Health: A Strategic Pivot
The State Health Plan, under Tom Friedman’s leadership, has evolved to embrace population health. By tailoring interventions to groups with shared environmental and social factors, the plan aims to improve collective health outcomes. Programs introduced include “Hello Heart” for managing chronic heart conditions, “Hinge Health” for virtual physical therapy, and “Ventricle Health,” a cardiology network.
In a landscape where some 70% of plan members grapple with chronic conditions, targeting lifestyle diseases like diabetes and hypertension becomes pivotal. According to North Carolina Health News, this focus isn’t just about treating illnesses but investing in healthier lifestyles sustainably.
Tackling High-Stakes Challenges
Actuarial data revealed troubling trends with increased instances of chronic diseases amongst plan members. With diabetes and obesity alarmingly prevalent, proactive measures are non-negotiable. Investments are not just in direct healthcare but also in facilities that sidestep rising costs, such as ambulatory surgical centers and telehealth services.
Rural Health: Bridging the Gap
Particular attention is on rural areas where access to primary care can be sparse. By negotiating contracts with preferred providers and promoting telehealth, the goal is to bring top-tier healthcare within reach even in the remotest parts of North Carolina. “Tele-mental health,” for instance, stands out as a key enabler for those battling behavioral health issues.
Looking Forward: Long-Term Investment
While premiums rise and some state employees express frustration, the vision is long-term savings through improved health metrics. By fostering relationships with more affordable healthcare providers, the State Health Plan aims to pass savings back to its members. Like the new contract with Lantern which offers surgeries at rates lower than Medicare, these negotiations set a precedent for cost-efficient healthcare.
Conclusion: The Long Game
Briner and Friedman underscore that turning the tide on chronic health conditions is a long-term investment. The measures put in place aim to create a sustainable framework where both costs are controlled and lives are significantly improved. This commitment to health isn’t just financial prudence; it’s a promise of a healthier, happier populace.
According to North Carolina Health News, while the journey is arduous, the anticipated outcome—a financially stable Health Plan supporting vibrant, healthy communities—will be worth the effort.
