Approved consolidation of Trillium, Eastpointe, and Sandhills Center takes effect; What the merger means for several GFBJ counties

By Staff Report, posted Jan 8, 2024 on BizFayetteville.com

Image courtesy of Trillium Health Resources

The end of 2023 brought in a big change for members, providers and employees of Trillium Health Resources.

On Dec. 18, 2023, North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) Secretary Kody H. Kinsley approved the consolidation agreement between Trillium Health Resources and Eastpointe Human Services, which provide managed care services to North Carolina’s Medicaid population.

This approval includes the consolidation of Eastpointe and Sandhills Center. As of Jan. 1, there are now a total of 46 counties in the combined region that are being operated by Trillium.

Trillium Health Resources looks forward to serving residents in Guilford, Randolph, Montgomery, Moore, Lee, Hoke, Richmond, Anson, Scotland, Robeson, Sampson, Duplin, Wayne, Lenoir, Greene, Wilson, Edgecombe and Warren counties starting Feb. 1, 2024.

As part of the agreement, all existing employees who desire employment and are in good standing will retain their positions. All provider contracts for those in good standing and serving members in affected counties will be honored.

“We will continue to keep members as our primary focus. We know the next few months will contain many new opportunities, but believe the hard work that Trillium, Eastpointe and Sandhills Center have already put forth will lead to a successful consolidation,” shared Joy Futrell, CEO of Trillium Health Resources and the CEO of the consolidated entity, in a press release.

Eastpointe’s CEO, Sarah Stroud, noted in a press release, “This consolidation will promote additional provider investments that will ensure members continue to receive the highest-quality care. Our team is dedicated to continuing this beneficial cycle that has strengthened our communities.”

“This consolidation agreement has been structured to preserve the local connections that are critical to North Carolina’s public behavioral health system,” stated Anthony Ward, Sandhills Center’s CEO. “We are excited to bring a strong network of providers and knowledgeable staff to the consolidation to continue our good work.”

NCDHHS is sending out notices to all transitioning members this month, and a new Medicaid ID card from NC Medicaid with their new LME/MCO listed within one week of Feb. 1, 2024. Members can continue to use old Medicaid ID cards until you get your new card. Until Feb. 1, 2024, patients can continue calling their existing MCO and providers with any needs.

Patients will also receive a welcome packet from Trillium with an introduction letter and a copy of their member handbook. Call 1-877-685-2415 with any questions.

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