County case-management programs face possible cuts; health directors to advocate for continuation

Jill Gragg, who presented the case-management update, told the board that two county case-management programs—one for at-risk children (previously CC4C) and one for high-risk pregnancies—are facing possible reduction by health insurance plans. "Both of these programs are facing a possible reduction," Gragg said, explaining that health plans were expected to decide by July 1 whether to allow the health department to continue providing services or to take the services into their own operations.

Gragg said local health directors, including Caldwell County leaders, are actively advocating to keep the programs because they provide locally situated services that health plans may not replicate. She said the county had secured an extension for the programs through Dec. 31 while discussions continue and that staff hope to have more information before the next board meeting.

No formal motion or vote was taken on this item; board members expressed support and interest in receiving updates as insurers provide decisions.