Transition from Cardinal Innovations has not been smooth, families say

CHARLOTTE — For months, Channel 9 has investigated complaints from families who say they couldn’t get behavioral or mental health help for their children or even drug treatment.

Cardinal Innovations Healthcare was responsible for coordinating that care for nearly 100,000 people statewide.

Now, new companies are taking over that job.

“There is no transition. It’s like we’ve built up all these years getting to this point for nothing because now we’re starting back over,” parent Meg Jenkins said.

>> In the video at the top of the page, Channel 9′s Allison Latos has been following the changes and spoke to some families who told her it’s not going as smoothly as they hoped.

Mecklenburg County will be holding a virtual town hall Nov. 17 at 6 p.m. for people to have an opportunity to learn more and ask questions about the county’s realignment with Alliance Health to manage behavioral health and intellectual/developmental disability services and supports.

The public can participate via Webex here or by calling 408-418-9388 and entering access code 2348 007 4453.

For more information from Partners Health Management regarding the transition, click here.

Information from Cardinal Innovations on the transition:

Q: Can you explain what steps Cardinal has and is taking to make sure the continuation of care is addressed through the transition?

A: Transitioning nearly 100,000 members is disruptive, which is why we strongly encouraged the counties to reconsider their actions earlier this year. Along with our partners at Cansler Collaborative Resources, we are doing everything in our power to ensure continuity of care, including the transfer of staff wherever possible. All activities are closely monitored by DHHS, and by all accounts transitions to date have occurred seamlessly.

Q: What types of meetings are happening between Cardinal, the families and the new LME/MCOs?

A: We conduct daily and weekly meetings across all facets of both organizations. We also post regular updates on our website and social media to educate the community. Ultimately, the coordination of member care, and the network of providers who deliver care, are the responsibility of the new LME/MCO.

Q: Can you provide a breakdown of where the transition stands in each county?

A: Click here for the realignment report.

A spokesperson for Cardinal Innovations said members who are in need of assistance are encouraged to reach out for help. They can call 800-939-5911.

(WATCH BELOW: Meck County agrees to cut ties with Cardinal Innovations)

'It’s too late’: Meck County agrees to cut ties with Cardinal Innovations

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