Our Impact

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Shaping Policy

Our work informs health policy in North Carolina, effecting positive change across the state

The goal of all NCIOM initiatives and research is to improve the health and well-being of North Carolinians by identifying evidence-based solutions with broad stakeholder support. The work of the NCIOM has led to improved health for North Carolinians and positive changes to health care delivery in North Carolina.

Increase Access to Health Care

For thirty years, the NCIOM has been involved in efforts aimed at expanding North Carolinians' access to high-quality, affordable health care. NCIOM task forces have focused on vulnerable populations, including uninsured pregnant women, children, and individuals with preexisting health conditions, as well as the availability and quality of health care services throughout the state.

 

NCIOM recommendations have led to the expansion of Medicaid coverage for pregnant women, the creation of the NC Health Choice program for children, the expansion of health professional training programs, and increased support for programs that support rural health practitioners.

 

NCIOM recommendations have led to increased utilization of preventive services, provider participation in Medicaid, and strengthening and supporting the health care safety net.

Improve Population Health

Through a collaboration with the Department of Health and Human Services and other partners, the NCIOM has improved the health and well-being of North Carolinians through a focus on preventive care and population-based strategies.

 

The Prevention Task Force developed evidence-based recommendations to reduce preventable risk factors for poor health, death, and disability in North Carolina. The recommendations helped state, local, and philanthropic organizations focus investments and identify areas for collaboration.

 

In partnership with the Governor's Task Force for Healthy Carolinians, the NCIOM convened experts to develop the state's Healthy North Carolina 2020 plan, and drive state and local activities to improve population health.

 

Finally, the Task Force on Implementing Evidence-Based Strategies in Public Health provided recommendations to help local health departments identify and implement evidence-based programs to address local health needs.

Address Health Professional Workforce Needs

NCIOM reports have highlighted the need for additional health professionals, particularly in our rural communities. The NCIOM Task Force on Primary Care and Specialty Supply report helped lead to

  • Establishment of a new medical school in the state, increasing the number of clinicians who are educated and work in the state.
  • Increased funding to support the expansion of both state medical schools, the addition of a new dental school, and new and expanded physician assistant and nursing programs.
Meet the Needs of Special Populations

The NCIOM Task Force on Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementias recommendations have led to

  • Increased state investments in the Medicaid Home and Community Based Services waiver, the Division of Aging and Adult Services, education and access to resources, and caregiver support services through Project C.A.R.E.
  • Local collective impact partnerships to develop Dementia-Capable Communities
  • Development of a statewide dementia registry

 

The NCIOM Task Force on Behavioral Health Services for the Military and their Families report led to

  • Increased access to behavioral health services for the North Carolina National Guard
  • Enhanced training for health care professionals and law enforcement

 

The NCIOM Task Force on Transitions for People with Developmental Disabilities recommendations helped lead to

  • Expanded postsecondary educational opportunities for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities in North Carolina
  • Improved outreach and connections to resources for older adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities
  • Implementation of programs to support individuals with intellectual and developmental living independently in their communities

 

The NCIOM Task Force on Short- and Long-Term Solutions for Co-Location in Adult and Family Care Homes recommendations helped lead to

  • State programs and policies to support adults with mental illness moving from adult care homes into community-based supportive housing
  • Increased awareness of supportive housing options for adults with mental illness
  • A standardized screening process prior to admission to an adult care home that includes recommendations on other housing options
Strengthen North Carolina's Mental Health and Substance Use Service Systems

NCIOM has convened many task forces in partnership with the Division of Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities, and Substance Abuse Services to address the mental health and substance use service need of North Carolinians. These task forces have contributed to

  • Increased focus of our mental health and substance use systems on recovery and community supports
  • Establishment of a statewide Suicide Prevention and Intervention Plan and a strategic plan for substance use prevention
  • Implementation of new models of care including co-location, telepsychiatry, and integrated care
  • Increased provider education on evidence-based treatment for mental health and substance use disorders

North Carolina Institute of Medicine

Shaping Policy for a Healthier State

Our Work

Task Forces and Projects

 

Publications

Reports, Issue Briefs, and the NCMJ

North Carolina Health Data

Health and Well-Being Statistics