Vaya Health

07/29/2026

Sometimes a crisis cannot wait for a scheduled appointment.

Vaya Health's Behavioral Health Crisis Line is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week at 1-800-849-6127 for anyone experiencing a mental health or substance use crisis.

Vaya’s crisis line is available to anyone in need of immediate support. For Vaya members, Member and Recipient Services (MRS) can also help navigate Vaya services and connect members with available supports.

You do not have to face a crisis alone.

07/28/2026

As students prepare for a new school year, it's normal to experience a mix of emotions, from excitement and anticipation to stress and uncertainty. New routines, classrooms, and expectations can take time to adjust to.

Building healthy coping skills can help students navigate these changes and support their overall well-being throughout the school year. Take a health screening to learn about your child’s mental health, and explore free mental health and wellness resources: https://www.vayamindful.org/

07/27/2026

North Carolina is seeing an increase in cases of cyclosporiasis, an intestinal illness caused by a parasite that can spread through contaminated food or water. Symptoms may include diarrhea, loss of appetite, stomach cramps, nausea, fatigue, and weight loss. Health officials recommend washing fresh produce thoroughly, practicing good hand hygiene, and seeking medical care if symptoms persist or become severe. Learn more about how to protect yourself and stay informed by visiting the NCDHHS website: https://www.ncdhhs.gov/news/press-releases/2026/07/21/ncdhhs-hold-virtual-media-availability-discuss-increase-cyclosporiasis-cases

🥬 NCDHHS continues to investigate the increase in cyclosporiasis cases across North Carolina alongside the NC Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services and local partners.

While the source has not yet been confirmed, parsley, cilantro and lettuce are among the foods most commonly reported by people who became sick. These ingredients have not been confirmed as the source but remain part of the ongoing investigation.

To help reduce your risk:
✔️ Wash your hands before preparing food.
✔️ Rinse fresh fruits and vegetables under running water.
✔️ Consider fully cooking parsley, cilantro and lettuce if using them in meals until more is known.
✔️ If you have severe or ongoing diarrhea, contact your health care provider.

NCDHHS will continue providing updates as the investigation progresses.

Read the full release here ➡️ https://www.ncdhhs.gov/news/press-releases/2026/07/17/ncdhhs-provides-update-cyclosporiasis-north-carolina
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🥬 El NCDHHS continúa investigando el aumento de casos de ciclosporiasis en Carolina del Norte, en colaboración con el Departamento de Agricultura y Servicios al Consumidor de Carolina del Norte y socios locales.

Aunque aún no se ha confirmado la fuente, el perejil, el cilantro y la lechuga figuran entre los alimentos mencionados con mayor frecuencia por las personas que enfermaron. Estos ingredientes no han sido confirmados como la fuente del brote, pero siguen formando parte de la investigación en curso.

Para ayudar a reducir el riesgo:
✔️ Lávese las manos antes de preparar alimentos.
✔️ Enjuague las frutas y verduras frescas con agua corriente.
✔️ Considere cocinar bien el perejil, el cilantro y la lechuga si los utiliza en sus comidas, hasta que se disponga de más información.
✔️ Si presenta diarrea grave o persistente, consulte a su proveedor de atención médica.

El NCDHHS seguirá proporcionando actualizaciones a medida que avance la investigación.

Lee el comunicado completo aquí ➡️ https://www.ncdhhs.gov/news/press-releases/2026/07/17/ncdhhs-provides-update-cyclosporiasis-north-carolina

07/27/2026

Not sure whether you're enrolled in Vaya Tailored Plan or Medicaid Direct? Understanding your coverage can help you know what services are available and where to turn when you need support.

Vaya serves members in both programs, but the services available to you may differ depending on your coverage. If you're unsure which program you're enrolled in or want to learn more about Medicaid Direct, Vaya has resources to help.

Learn more: https://www.vayahealth.com/medicaid-direct/

07/16/2026

You can live with hepatitis for years without realizing it.

Because symptoms are not always obvious, many people do not know they have a viral hepatitis infection until serious liver damage has already occurred. Testing can help identify infections earlier and connect people with treatment and support.

During Hepatitis Awareness Month, take time to learn about risk factors, prevention, and the importance of screening. Learn more at www.hepatitisfoundation.org.

07/14/2026

Good health is about more than doctor visits. Through Vaya Total Care, eligible members can access extra benefits, wellness resources, and support designed to help them take charge of their health and well-being. From preventive care to healthy lifestyle incentives, these benefits help support the whole person.

Learn more about Vaya Total Care and member benefits at https://www.vayahealth.com/vaya-total-care/?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=vaya_total_care_member_benefits_aug2026

07/14/2026

North Carolina is investing in a healthier future for rural communities.

Home to more than 3.5 million rural residents, North Carolina will launch the North Carolina Rural Health Transformation Program, a statewide initiative supported by $213 million in federal funding approved by the U.S. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services selected Vaya Health to serve as the Region 3 Hub Lead for NC ROOTS, bringing together local organizations to strengthen rural health and build sustainable, community-driven solutions. Learn more:
https://www.vayahealth.com/ncrootshub/

07/10/2026

A new school year is right around the corner, making now a great time to review your child's health checklist. Along with gathering school supplies and preparing for new routines, be sure to check whether your child is up to date on recommended vaccinations.

Taking care of these appointments before the school year begins can help families avoid the back-to-school rush and ensure students are ready for a healthy start to the year.

Learn more about vaccinations and available resources: https://www.vayahealth.com/benefits-services/improve-your-wellness/vaccinations/?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=back_to_school_vaccinations_aug2026

07/09/2026

Summer adventures are more fun when you're feeling your best. Whether you're spending time at the pool, exploring the outdoors, or enjoying a community event, staying hydrated can help support your energy, focus, and overall well-being.

Keep a water bottle nearby, take regular water breaks, and remember that fruits and vegetables can help contribute to your daily hydration, too.

Learn more about staying hydrated during the summer months:
https://www.cdc.gov/heat-health/about/index.html

07/08/2026

Mental health is important for everyone, but the path to care isn't always the same.

During Minority Mental Health Awareness Month, we're recognizing that culture, language, lived experiences, and community all play an important role in how people experience mental health and access support. By listening, reducing stigma, and expanding culturally responsive care, we can help more people connect with the services they need.

Read insights from four North Carolina mental health leaders on improving access and quality of care for diverse communities: https://www.vayahealth.com/news-and-stories/minority-mental-health-awareness-improving-access-and-quality-of-care-insights-from-four-mental-health-leaders/?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=minority_mental_health_awareness_month_2026

We asked four thoughtful, engaged leaders to speak about mental health strengths, challenges, and opportunities for increased wellness. Find out their insights.