Physicians/Specialists
Facilities/Hospitals
Publication Date: 
2021-10-19

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina (Blue Cross NC) announced its plan to implement a series of initiatives aimed at addressing and eliminating racial, health and geographical disparities in North Carolina. Over the next few months, the company will launch three programs to provide strategic funding, capacity building for nonprofits and economic mobility for nonprofit organizations and government health entities serving rural and underserved communities and communities of color. To improve North Carolina’s ranking as having the eleventh highest infant mortality rate in the country[1], the first initiative will focus on maternal and infant health, supporting Blue Cross NC’s goal to decrease racial disparities in maternal and child health care within the state by 50% in five years.

 

Addressing Health Disparities: Improving Maternal and Infant Health Outcomes

Blue Cross NC is committing $2 million to support evidence-based strategies that achieve significant improvement in infant and maternal health outcomes, specifically addressing disparities in Black, American Indian and Hispanic communities.

Between now and Nov. 12, 2021, Blue Cross NC is accepting collaborative proposals that demonstrate an ability to expand or replicate results in nearby communities and include a plan for sustainability beyond the funding period. Applications for funding can be submitted here. Informational webinar sessions will also be held to provide an overview of the application process and criteria. Complete this form to learn more and register for an upcoming session.

 

To learn more about this effort, click here to read the full press release.