HHS Board

The Buncombe County Government's HHS Board meeting on August 29, 2026, focused primarily on public health program updates and policy discussions. Key procurement-related topics included the transition of high-risk pregnancy and child case management services from county provision to prepaid health plans (PHPs) due to Medicare program changes, impacting county staffing and service delivery. The board also discussed funding confirmations for the START program and ongoing accreditation processes. Additionally, there was a detailed communicable disease report covering vaccine-preventable diseases, sexually transmitted infections, and concerns about the administration and costs of rabies post-exposure prophylaxis at local hospitals. While no direct contract awards or RFPs were mentioned, the meeting highlighted significant programmatic shifts and budgetary considerations related to Medicaid changes and public health service delivery. The board also reviewed policy roles, local health ordinances, and advocacy efforts, emphasizing their advisory and ambassadorial functions in supporting county health initiatives.