Forsyth County Begins Disengagement Process From Cardinal Innovations

Forsyth County is taking steps to part ways with Cardinal Innovations Healthcare. It's among several counties in the state seeking to drop the company.  

Cardinal is the state's largest behavioral health managed-care organization. It oversees providers for mental health, substance abuse, and developmental disabilities services for Medicaid recipients. 

Forsyth County commissioners approved a resolution this week to disengage with Cardinal.

Local leaders say complaints range from access and placement for children in social services custody, to timely transition for care after emergency room visits or hospitalization.

In a press release, the county says it requested an action plan from Cardinal to address issues residents have been experiencing for years. It goes on to say the staff has lost “trust and confidence" in Cardinal.

Cardinal says it's committed to meeting the needs and has presented a plan with significant improvements, including a $30 million investment for children entering state custody and its new child welfare program.

North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Dr. Mandy Cohen has to approve any changes.

"Regardless of the resolution and ultimate decision by Secretary Cohen, we will continue to listen, respond, and improve how we work with our counties on behalf of the health and wellbeing of their most vulnerable citizens," says Cardinal Innovations CEO Trey Sutten.

Forsyth is among six counties seeking to break ties with the company. Others include Mecklenburg and Union.

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