North Carolina State Health Plan Approves Strategic Plan and Medicare Advantage Benefits
This week, the State Health Plan (Plan) Board of Trustees approved its 2026-2032 Strategic Plan, advancing initiative designed to improve member health outcomes while strengthening the Plan’s long-term financial sustainability. The board unanimously approved the plan.
In addition, the Board approved the 2027 Medicare Advantage Benefits for the Plan. The changes for the Humana Medicare Advantage plans, which currently serve nearly 177,000 Medicare retirees, are projected to save the Plan approximately $31.5 million while continuing to provide comprehensive coverage options for retirees.
"When people are asked what their biggest barrier to eating fruits and vegetables is, the answer is cost. This partnership removes that barrier for state employees managing serious chronic conditions — and the research shows that when you do that, their health improves,” Reinvestment Partners CEO Peter Skillern said.
The Board also received an update on the Eat Well Pilot Program, which launched June 1. The initiative is currently limited to 1,000 eligible members if they have a diagnosis of at least one cardiometabolic condition — Type 2 diabetes, coronary artery disease, or chronic kidney disease — and a household income at or below $50,000. Eat Well will provide a $80 monthly grocery benefit to purchase nutrient-dense foods such as fruits, vegetables and beans. The 12-month pilot run through Reinvestment Partners reflects the Plan's commitment to preventive care and addressing chronic disease through innovative population health programs.
"Food is medicine," Treasurer Brad Briner said. " The people who teach our kids and keep our state running deserve access to interventions that work — and that's exactly what this partnership provides. The Eat Well program can improve health outcomes and potentially reduce the need for more costly medical interventions in the future."
