The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services will host a live fireside chat and tele-town hall on Tuesday, Nov. 19, from 6 to 7 p.m., in partnership with The National Coalition of 100 Black Women Inc., Queen City Metropolitan Chapter. During this event, NCDHHS and NCBW will provide information and resources to those who may be eligible for Medicaid throughout the Mecklenburg community and across the state.
Event participants include:
- LaQuana Palmer, MPA, Deputy Director, NC Medicaid Communications and Engagement, Division of Health Benefits, NCDHHS
- Bella-Giavanni Austin, President, National Coalition of 100 Black Women Inc. (NCBW), Queen City Metropolitan Chapter
- Priyanka Priydrshni, Enrollment Coordinator, Charlotte Community Health Clinic
For many, gaining access to health care coverage through Medicaid can mean finally going to a doctor or filling prescriptions for the first time in years. Health care coverage is also vital to reducing health disparities, which continue to disproportionately impact communities of color in North Carolina.
Fireside chat and tele-town hall panelists will discuss the following:
- Who is newly eligible for Medicaid under expansion
- Ways to apply for Medicaid and other health care coverage
- What to know about open enrollment (began Nov. 1)
- Health services and resources in Mecklenburg County
NC Medicaid now covers more people ages 19 through 64 years old, and more than half a million newly eligible people have enrolled since expansion began on Dec. 1, 2023. To ensure people can get the appointments, medications and treatments they need, Medicaid covers health premiums and most services, and co-pays are never more than $4. The NCDHHS Medicaid expansion website provides information on eligibility, how to apply and where to find support. Individuals can also connect with state support teams to better understand their health care coverage options and get enrolled.
The fireside chat will stream live from the NCDHHS Facebook and YouTube accounts, where viewers can submit questions. The event also includes a tele-town hall, which invites people by phone to listen in and submit questions. People can dial into the event by calling 855-756-7520 Ext. 111942#.
About The National Coalition of 100 Black Women Inc., Queen City Metropolitan Chapter:
Part of the Queen City Metropolitan Chapter of NCBW’s mission is to champion the well-being of Mecklenburg communities, with a focus on Black women and girls, and advocate for resources to improve whole person health, which encompasses physical, emotional and spiritual health.