Two major behavioral health organizations have announced their consolidation to strengthen North Carolina’s public mental health system. The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services approved the merger of Vaya Health and Partners Health Management, effective October 1, 2026, following action by both organizations’ Boards of Directors.
Creating the Largest Behavioral Health Organization
The new organization, operating under the name Vaya Partners, will serve more than 222,000 members across 47 counties, becoming North Carolina’s largest publicly governed behavioral health organization. It will focus on integrated, whole-person care for individuals with complex needs related to mental health, substance use disorders, intellectual and developmental disabilities, and traumatic brain injuries.
Continuity and Leadership
Individuals currently receiving services through Vaya or Partners will not experience changes to their benefits or providers. Contracted providers will continue operating as they do today, with no immediate changes to participation, billing, or administrative processes. Tracy Hayes, current Area Director and Chief Executive Officer of Vaya Health, will lead Vaya Partners in that role. Libby McCraw, Chief Executive Officer of Partners Health Management, will assume the position of Senior Deputy CEO, and Rachel Porter, Deputy CEO of Partners Health Management, will continue as Deputy CEO.
Regional Integration
The consolidation establishes a more connected and cohesive region that better reflects how care is delivered and how communities function, positioning the public system to more effectively meet the needs of members, families, providers, counties, and communities. Leadership will work closely with state and local partners to ensure continuity of care and a successful transition.
This article is an AI-assisted summary. All facts and figures are drawn from the original report: https://nynewscast.com/vaya-health-and-partners-health-management-announce-merger-221790/