# North Carolina State Health Plan Expands Atrium Partnership

The State Health Plan of North Carolina announced a partnership with Atrium Health effective January 1, 2027, to expand affordable healthcare access for nearly 750,000 state employees, teachers, retirees, and their families. This agreement integrates twelve Atrium Health hospitals into the Plan's Access-level network, enhancing coverage options including rural care, children's hospitals, and specialty services while maintaining cost benefits for members. The collaboration reflects coordinated efforts involving major healthcare systems and legislative engagement to support the Plan's long-term sustainability.

- This partnership signals increased procurement opportunities for healthcare providers within North Carolina's state employee health benefits program.
- Procurement professionals should note the integration of multiple Atrium Health facilities across key cities such as Charlotte, Concord, Shelby, and Kings Mountain, indicating geographic expansion of service networks.
- Contractors and vendors supporting healthcare delivery, specialty services, and rural care may find new demand driven by this expanded network.
- Organizations involved in healthcare IT, managed care, and network administration should evaluate potential roles in supporting the Plan's expanded service infrastructure.

**Jurisdictions:** sled
**Industries:** Healthcare
**Topics:** Grants & Funding
**Published:** September 14, 2026

### Government Entities
- State Health Plan (SHP)
- Department of State Treasurer

### Vendors
- Atrium Health (partner hospital system)
- Advocate Health (parent organization of Atrium Health)

### Key Quotes
> Our objective has always been clear and consistent  we must offer our members high-quality care for affordable prices.
> — Brad Briner, Treasurer

### Sources
- [State Health Plan and Atrium Health Announce Partnership Expanding Affordable Access for Members in 2027 | NC Treasurer](https://www.nctreasurer.gov/news/press-releases/2026/09/14/state-health-plan-and-atrium-health-announce-partnership-expanding-affordable-access-members-2027) - NC