North Carolina has created the nation’s first statewide infrastructure connecting healthcare and human services called NCCARE360.
Through a public-private partnership, the state developed this technology platform to coordinate whole-person care, uniting traditional healthcare settings and organizations that address non-medical drivers of health, often referred to as social determinants of health. The system is available in all 100 counties of the state. As of September 20th, 1,436 organizations have joined the network and 5,076 users have accessed the system.
Anyone in North Carolina can request services and be connected to an accountable organization to support their immediate and long-term needs. NCCARE360 enables health and community-based organizations to make electronic referrals, communicate in real-time, securely share client information, and track outcomes. State residents can search the system’s repository of more than 10,000 local services, call 2-1-1, or complete an online form to request services.
NCCARE360 helps providers electronically connect patients with identified needs to community-based resources, and allows for feedback and follow-up. The system ensures accountability for services delivered, provides a ‘no wrong door’ approach, closes the loop on referrals and reports outcomes for connections.
With the increased focus on identifying and addressing social determinants of health, the NCCARE360 system can serve as a model for other states that wish to integrate non-medical care with traditional healthcare delivery.
Visit the NCCARE360 website to learn more.