Vaya Health

There is no right or wrong way to feel after a disaster. Hope4NC is here to help communities impacted by Hurricane Helene. Whether you are experiencing stress, emotional fatigue, or a mental health crisis, support is available. You can reach the Hope4NC Helpline 24/7 at 1-855-587-3463—it’s free, confidential, and ready when you need it. Crisis outreach workers provide emotional support, connect you with recovery resources, and meet you where you are—at home, the library, or a safe space: Hope4NC.org

Building a strong community starts with supporting local businesses. Many Vaya members with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities are entrepreneurs, running their own microenterprises. These small businesses provide not only income, but also a sense of purpose, independence, and the chance to give back. We’re proud to support their efforts and celebrate their contributions to our communities. Explore the Microenterprise Directory to discover these talented individuals and learn how they’re making a difference. Learn more and shop these businesses: https://ow.ly/wk8p50VfCJN

On International Women's Day, we honor the incredible contributions women have made to health care. Pioneers like Elizabeth Blackwell, the first woman in the U.S. to earn a medical degree in 1849, paved the way for future generations of women in medicine. Rebecca Lee Crumpler, the first Black woman to earn a medical degree in the U.S., dedicated her career to underserved communities. and many other trailblazers have broken barriers that shaped health care as we know it today. We celebrate their legacy and women in health care who continue to inspire change. Learn more and find virtual events happening in March: https://lnkd.in/dGX7T8X

Daylight Savings Time begins this weekend — hooray for more sunlight! Don’t forget to set your clocks forward. While it may be an adjustment, the extra daylight can be a great reminder to step outside, walk your dog, or visit a neighbor. For some, the shift may disrupt sleep and impact mental health, particularly for those experiencing Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). SAD is a form of depression that occurs with seasonal changes, often bringing symptoms like fatigue, changes in sleep or appetite, and feelings of sadness. To help manage symptoms, consider maximizing your time outdoors, maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, and seeking professional support when needed. Learn more about signs and symptoms: https://lnkd.in/eG4Y5XhE

Medicaid members be aware of potential scams! Scammers may contact you by phone, text, or email about your Medicaid status. Medicaid will never ask for personal information or payment through these methods. If you receive a suspicious message, do not respond. Instead, call the Member Recipient Service Line at 1-800-962-9003 to check your Medicaid status and report concerns. Stay informed and protect your information.

March is one of our favorite months - not only does it mean spring is around the corner, but it's a time to shine a light on people with intellectual/developmental disabilities (I/DD) who help shatter stigma with their stories. Learn about Steve’s journey to independent living brought to life by The Arc, and stay tuned this month for other uplifting stories about I/DD individuals. https://lnkd.in/eCXauqcU

Vaya Total Care members may be eligible for non-medical transportation support to help with everyday needs. Receive up to 24 trips each year through our transportation partner, Modivcare. This perk helps with getting to health and non-health related destinations, such as grocery stores, pharmacies, work, and more. Check out more about this perk and others at https://lnkd.in/e_98jSZY

Vaya Total Care members can take a step toward healthier living with our WW (formerly Weight Watchers) program. Eligible members will receive a voucher for a 6-month WW mobile app subscription. Access to the WW app provides food, activity, and water trackers, fitness video classes, a sleep tracker, and much more. To learn about qualifications and other Vaya Total Care perks, please visit: https://lnkd.in/eEiCT96p

Millions of people provide care for loved ones facing health challenges, often without recognition or support. Vaya Health honors those who dedicate their time, energy, and compassion to caring for family or friends with health challenges. With nearly 1 in 5 adults providing unpaid care, Vaya’s Geriatric Adult Specialty Team (GAST) offers free training and resources to support caregivers across North Carolina. Last year, GAST provided over 2,400 hours of training to thousands in our communities. We would like to extend our appreciation to individuals who selflessly provide personal care and physical and emotional support to those who need it most. Learn more about available support and educational resources here: https://lnkd.in/eN3FM-m7

There’s nothing like coming down with a cold, the flu, or COVID-19 to remind us how important it is to stay healthy and protected. Annual wellness visits help keep you on track with routine vaccines, protecting you and others from preventable illnesses. NCDHHS updated its Respiratory Virus Summary Dashboard, showing a rise in flu activity and flu-related deaths, now totaling well over 100 this season. Early antiviral treatment can help prevent these illnesses from becoming more serious, so contact your doctor if you're feeling sick. Learn more about vaccinations and how they can protect you and those around you: https://lnkd.in/ej5qFu53