Optum was selected by the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services to streamline enrollment, credentialing and data management for more than 90,000 health care providers serving patients in the state’s Medicaid program.

“We are honored to partner with the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services to enhance the provider experience and support them as they see to the health and wellness of their patients and communities,” said Dennis Vaughan, chief executive officer of Optum State Government Solutions. “We are committed to high quality service in support of the state’s vital health care programs, its providers and members.”

Optum will work closely with NCDHHS to configure the system to the state’s unique needs and policies. Scheduled to launch in 2024, it will include providers in all NCDHHS programs: Division of Health Benefits (NC Medicaid), Division of Mental Health Developmental Disabilities and Substance Abuse Services, Division of Public Health and Office of Rural Health.

“NCDHHS depends on the state’s dedicated providers to deliver services that advance the health and well-being of North Carolinians,” said Deputy Secretary for NC Medicaid Jay Ludlam. “We are looking forward to launching an improved data management and credentialing solution that will make it easier for providers to complete the credentialing process so they can focus on what they do best — caring for the people in their communities.”

Optum was awarded the contract for Provider Data Management/Credentialing Verification Organization (PDM/CVO) solution after careful evaluation of the National Association of State Procurement Officials ValuePoint Contractors that responded to the state’s request for proposal. NASPO ValuePoint is the association’s cooperative purchasing program, which facilitates public procurement solicitations and agreements.