North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) Market Research Report

Background

Overview

The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) is the state's principal agency responsible for managing health and human services for all North Carolinians, with a particular focus on vulnerable populations such as children, the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and low-income families. Established in 1971, NCDHHS operates as a comprehensive entity encompassing various divisions and offices dedicated to public health, social services, and related sectors.

Mission and Vision

NCDHHS's mission is to protect the health and safety of all North Carolinians and provide essential human services. The department envisions a state where all residents have access to quality health care, social services, and opportunities for well-being.

Primary Area of Focus

The department's primary focus areas include:

• Health Services: Overseeing public health initiatives, disease prevention, and health education.

• Social Services: Providing assistance programs such as Medicaid, food assistance, and child welfare services.

• Behavioral Health: Addressing mental health, substance use disorders, and developmental disabilities.

• Long-Term Care: Managing services for individuals requiring long-term care, including those with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Industry Significance

As one of the largest state agencies, NCDHHS plays a pivotal role in shaping health and human services policies and programs in North Carolina. Its initiatives significantly impact the well-being of the state's residents, influencing public health outcomes, economic stability, and social equity.

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives

• Enhancing Access to Services: Improving the availability and accessibility of health and human services across the state.

• Promoting Health Equity: Addressing and reducing health disparities among different population groups.

• Integrating Services: Fostering collaboration among divisions to provide comprehensive care.

• Implementing Technology Solutions: Leveraging technology to streamline services and improve efficiency.

Specific Areas of Specialization

• Medicaid Managed Care: Transitioning Medicaid from a fee-for-service model to a managed care system to improve care coordination and cost-effectiveness.

• Behavioral Health Services: Expanding and enhancing services for mental health, substance use disorders, and developmental disabilities.

• Public Health Initiatives: Implementing programs aimed at disease prevention, health promotion, and emergency preparedness.

Key Technologies Utilized

• NCTracks: A system for managing Medicaid billing and provider information.

• NC FAST: An integrated case management system for social services benefits.

• Electronic Health Records (EHR): Adoption of EHR systems across facilities to improve patient care and data management.

Primary Markets or Conditions Targeted

• Low-Income Families: Providing access to essential health and social services.

• Individuals with Disabilities: Offering specialized programs and support services.

• Elderly Population: Ensuring access to long-term care and health services.

Financials and Funding

Funding History

NCDHHS operates with a substantial budget, primarily funded through state appropriations and federal grants. In the fiscal year 2024-2025, the department generated $386 million in lapsed salary funds, comprising $151 million from state appropriations and $235 million from receipts and federal funding.

Recent Funding Rounds

While specific details on recent funding rounds are not publicly disclosed, the department's budget reflects ongoing investments in health and human services programs.

Notable Investors

As a government agency, NCDHHS's funding sources include state and federal governments, with allocations determined through legislative processes.

Intended Utilization of Capital

The funds are utilized across various programs, including Medicaid services, public health initiatives, behavioral health services, and long-term care facilities, aiming to enhance service delivery and address the needs of North Carolina residents.

Pipeline Development

Key Pipeline Candidates

NCDHHS's pipeline includes the development and implementation of:

• Medicaid Managed Care Plans: Tailored plans for individuals with behavioral health needs and intellectual and developmental disabilities, with a scheduled launch on October 1, 2023.

• Behavioral Health Reimbursement Rate Increases: Scheduled for January 1, 2024, to improve access to care and address funding gaps.

Stages of Clinical Trials or Product Development

As a governmental entity, NCDHHS does not engage in clinical trials or product development in the traditional sense. Instead, it focuses on program development, policy implementation, and service delivery enhancements.

Target Conditions

• Behavioral Health Disorders: Including mental health issues, substance use disorders, and developmental disabilities.

• Chronic Diseases: Such as diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular diseases.

• Infectious Diseases: Including influenza, COVID-19, and other communicable diseases.

Relevant Timelines for Anticipated Milestones

• October 1, 2023: Launch of Medicaid Tailored Plans for individuals with complex behavioral health needs.

• January 1, 2024: Implementation of increased Medicaid reimbursement rates for behavioral health services.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Proprietary Technologies

• NCTracks: A proprietary system developed to manage Medicaid billing and provider information efficiently.

• NC FAST: An integrated case management system for social services benefits, streamlining service delivery.

Significant Scientific Methods

• Data Analytics: Utilizing data analytics to inform decision-making and improve program outcomes.

• Health Informatics: Implementing health informatics to enhance patient care and operational efficiency.

AI-Driven Capabilities

While specific AI-driven capabilities are not detailed, NCDHHS is engaged in digital transformation efforts, including the adoption of electronic health records and data analytics, which may incorporate AI technologies.

Leadership Team

Key Executive Profiles

• Kody H. Kinsley: Secretary of NCDHHS, appointed by Governor Roy Cooper.

• Mark Benton: Chief Deputy Secretary for Health.

• Jonathan Kappler: Deputy Secretary for External Affairs & Chief of Staff.

• Susan Osborne: Deputy Secretary for Opportunity & Wellbeing.

• Dr. ClarLynda Williams-Devane: Deputy Secretary for Operational Excellence.

• Debra Farrington: Deputy Secretary for Health Equity & Chief Health Equity Officer.

• Jay Ludlam: Deputy Secretary for NC Medicaid.

• Elizabeth Cuervo Tilson: State Health Director & Chief Medical Officer.

Professional Backgrounds and Contributions

• Kody H. Kinsley: Appointed Secretary in 2021, Kinsley has a background in public health and policy, focusing on health system transformation.

• Mark Benton: Serves as Chief Deputy Secretary for Health, overseeing various health-related divisions within NCDHHS.

• Jonathan Kappler: As Deputy Secretary for External Affairs & Chief of Staff, Kappler manages external communications and strategic initiatives.

• Susan Osborne: Leads the Opportunity & Wellbeing division, focusing on programs that promote economic stability and well-being.

• Dr. ClarLynda Williams-Devane: Oversees Operational Excellence, ensuring efficient and effective service delivery.

• Debra Farrington: As Chief Health Equity Officer, Farrington leads efforts to address health disparities and promote equity.

• Jay Ludlam: Manages NC Medicaid, overseeing the state's Medicaid program and its transformation initiatives.

• Elizabeth Cuervo Tilson: As State Health Director, Tilson provides medical leadership and guidance on public health matters.

Leadership Changes

In February 2023, Dave Richard, the Deputy Secretary for Medicaid, retired after overseeing the transition of North Carolina's Medicaid program to managed care.