Thanks to a grant extension from Blue Cross and Blue Shield (Blue Cross NC), the YMCA will be able to continue offering Y Health memberships, formerly known as Medical Memberships, to members of our community who need access to quality, evidence-based programs, health coaching and workout facilities.
“Our YMCA has a long history of enhancing and adapting programs to meet critical needs in the community. But we can’t do that alone,” said Bruce Ham, YMCA of the Triangle CEO. “Thanks to this continued partnership with Blue Cross NC, Y Health members can participate in evidence-based programs and care coordination in our YMCAs where they can take advantage of Y programs and services.”
Blue Cross NC is dedicated to improving our customers' and communities' health and well-being. We are excited to continue the partnership with the YMCA to help more North Carolinians access the YMCA’s proven health programs. Together we can advance our shared goal to improve health for all, they said in a statement.
Initial Pilot Program
In 2019, Blue Cross NC made a three-year, $1.5 million investment in the pilot program, allowing Triangle-area Blue Cross members to participate in the innovative, comprehensive integrated health collaboration.
A Y Health membership is one where the patient is referred to the YMCA by a physician. Typically, the referral comes as a result of a health diagnosis such as pre-diabetes, adult and child weight management, cancer, high blood pressure or the risk of falls due to age or illness.
Each Y Health membership is a bundle of three services - a YMCA membership, participation in an evidence-based program and care coordination. Programs are offered both in-person and virtually. For Blue Cross NC beneficiaries, this bundle of services is offered at $25 per month (all plans covered).
