In the waning days of Gov. Roy Cooper’s administration, outgoing Health and Human Services Secretary Kody Kinsley reflects on his tenure and the transformative changes he has spearheaded in North Carolina’s healthcare landscape. With a focus on simplifying access to care, expanding mental health services, and addressing social determinants of health, Kinsley leaves behind a robust foundation for future progress.

Empowering Communities Through Innovative Healthcare Solutions

Achieving Simplicity in Healthcare Navigation

Kody Kinsley, a Brevard College alumnus, assumed leadership of the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) in 2022 after serving as undersecretary for four years. His primary mission was to streamline healthcare access, making it easier for residents to navigate the system. Recognizing the complexities that often deter individuals from seeking necessary medical assistance, Kinsley initiated reforms aimed at reducing bureaucratic hurdles. He emphasized the importance of user-friendly processes, ensuring that patients can easily find the support they need without unnecessary complications. For instance, deploying trauma counselors door-to-door following Hurricane Helene demonstrated a proactive approach to addressing immediate community needs, reflecting Kinsley’s commitment to long-term recovery efforts.The challenges posed by natural disasters like Hurricane Helene highlighted the need for resilient healthcare infrastructure. Kinsley acknowledged that rebuilding trust and providing immediate relief were crucial steps toward achieving this goal. The deployment of hundreds of trauma counselors across Western North Carolina exemplified a hands-on strategy that not only offered psychological support but also fostered stronger community ties. This initiative underscored the department’s dedication to holistic recovery, addressing both physical and emotional well-being.

Prioritizing Mental Health Investments

Mental health emerged as one of Kinsley’s top priorities during his tenure. In a significant move, UNC Health Pardee announced a $30 million investment to establish a 33-bed inpatient adolescent behavioral health facility set to open in 2026. This development is part of a broader $800 million mental health investment, signaling a substantial commitment to improving mental health resources in the state. Adolescents who previously faced barriers to receiving adequate care will now have access to specialized facilities designed to meet their unique needs.Kinsley stressed the critical importance of providing intensive care for vulnerable youth populations, many of whom end up in emergency departments or DSS offices due to a lack of appropriate facilities. The new adolescent behavioral health unit aims to bridge this gap, offering comprehensive treatment options that address both immediate crises and long-term mental health issues. By investing in these resources, North Carolina is taking a decisive step toward building a more resilient and supportive healthcare system for its youngest residents.

Expanding Medicaid and Social Determinants of Health

North Carolina’s passage of Medicaid expansion in 2023 marked a monumental achievement for Kinsley and the Cooper administration. As the 40th state to adopt this policy, North Carolina extended comprehensive healthcare coverage to over 611,000 residents. Kinsley hailed this development as a "dream come true," attributing its success to Gov. Cooper’s relentless advocacy. Beyond traditional healthcare services, Medicaid expansion included innovative pilot programs that addressed social determinants of health such as food security, housing, and transportation.These initiatives demonstrated a forward-thinking approach to healthcare, recognizing that factors outside the clinical setting significantly impact overall health outcomes. Studies revealed that participants in these programs experienced fewer emergency department visits and improved health status, while the state achieved cost savings of $85 per person per month. By integrating social services into healthcare delivery, Kinsley’s policies not only enhanced patient well-being but also promoted fiscal responsibility within the healthcare system.

Relieving Medical Debt and Enhancing Charity Care

In another groundbreaking effort, hospitals across North Carolina are forgiving $4 billion in medical debt for approximately two million residents, dating back to 2014. This unprecedented move aims to alleviate financial burdens that often prevent individuals from accessing necessary care. Kinsley emphasized that eliminating medical debt fosters a healthier relationship between patients and the healthcare system, shifting the focus from collections to genuine care provision.Additionally, the threshold for charity care eligibility has been raised, allowing more people to benefit from free or reduced-cost medical services. Importantly, these initiatives come at no cost to taxpayers, underscoring the efficiency and effectiveness of Kinsley’s strategies. By removing financial barriers, North Carolina is fostering an environment where healthcare is accessible to all, regardless of economic circumstances.

Looking Ahead: A Bipartisan Approach to Healthcare Reform

Kinsley credited bipartisanship as a key factor in achieving many of these healthcare milestones. Collaborative efforts between policymakers and stakeholders ensured that progressive policies gained widespread support, leading to tangible improvements in public health. As Kinsley prepares to leave office on January 11, 2025, his legacy is characterized by a steadfast commitment to innovation and inclusivity in healthcare.Josh Stein, the incoming governor, has appointed Dev Sangvai to lead DHHS moving forward. While Kinsley’s departure marks the end of an era, his contributions have laid a solid foundation for continued advancements in North Carolina’s healthcare system. The state stands poised to build upon these achievements, ensuring that every resident has access to high-quality, compassionate care.