Foster children across North Carolina are facing a critical issue. As caretakers or advocates for these children, the loss of access to one of the largest healthcare providers in the state - UNC Healthcare - is incredibly concerning. UNC Healthcare's decision not to participate in the Healthy Blue Children and Families Specialty Plan network severely limits healthcare options for vulnerable children who rely on comprehensive care.

The Healthy Blue Children and Families Specialty Plan plays an essential role in providing needed healthcare services to the foster care community. That includes everything from regular pediatric care to specialized medical treatments. For many of these children, healthcare providers within this network serve as their medical lifeline, offering stability in what is often a turbulent and uncertain time in their lives.

The absence of UNC Health in this plan results in difficulties scheduling appointments, increased travel times, and unnecessary stress on foster parents and guardians striving to meet the healthcare needs of their children. Moreover, this impacts specialists' accessibility, potentially delaying diagnoses and treatments that can be life-changing for these children.

Currently, there are data showing that there are over 16,000 children in foster care in North Carolina as per a report by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. A vast percentage of these children require medical care that exceeds typical needs due to complex trauma histories and special health requirements. Limiting their healthcare options jeopardizes their physical and mental health, ultimately affecting their ability to thrive.

We implore UNC Health to reconsider their decision. By joining the Healthy Blue network, UNC Healthcare can ensure that these children and families have access to the high standard of healthcare that they deserve.

Together, we can make a difference. Please sign this petition to urge UNC Health to participate in the Healthy Blue Children and Families Specialty Plan network, ensuring all foster children in North Carolina have access to essential and quality healthcare services.