Accessing health care can be difficult for many North Carolina residents. This is particularly true in rural and mountainous regions, where provider shortages, transportation barriers and economic challenges often limit access to essential services.1 These challenges contribute to delayed preventive care, unmanaged chronic conditions and avoidable emergency visits that strain families and local health systems.
North Carolina ranks among the top 10 states where health care is considered least accessible.2 In western North Carolina, an area already impacted by geographic isolation and by Hurricane Helene, these barriers are even more pronounced, leaving many residents without reliable access to primary or preventive care. To help close this gap, UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of North Carolina is investing $750K to expand Appalachian Mountain Health’s mobile medical program, which brings comprehensive health services directly to rural communities.
Advancing rural health care through mobile innovation
Appalachian Mountain Health, a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC), operates six brick-and-mortar clinics and a mobile medical unit that travels across Buncombe, Cherokee, Graham and Jackson counties. The mobile unit provides a wide range of services, including:
- Primary care and preventive screenings
- Behavioral health support
- Lab testing and school physicals
- Wound care and dental services
- Clinical pharmacy consultations
By bringing these services directly to patients, the program helps overcome common access barriers such as transportation costs and long travel distances to the nearest clinic or hospital.
Expanding capacity through community investment
Our $750K investment will fund a second mobile medical unit, doubling the program’s reach and capacity. The new vehicle will feature two exam rooms, allowing Appalachian Mountain Health’s primary care teams to serve twice as many patients. For residents who may face challenges related to transportation, housing stability or financial hardship, mobile health services provide a lifeline, making sure that care, screenings and medications are readily available and in close proximity.
“The ability to access health care is a challenge for far too many people,” comments Anita Bachmann, CEO of UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of North Carolina. “We’re proud to support Appalachian Mountain Health’s mobile medicine program, which is helping provide access to care in regions where the need is great. Through this collaboration, we’re able to make a positive impact on the health and well-being of our communities.”
Building a healthier future for rural communities
Mobile health programs like Appalachian Mountain Health’s are transforming how care is delivered across North Carolina. By combining clinical expertise with community-based outreach, these programs help identify health needs early, reduce avoidable hospitalizations and improve long-term outcomes.
Through this investment, UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of North Carolina is advancing its mission to make sure every person, regardless of ZIP code or circumstance, has access to the care and support they need to live healthier lives.
Learn more about how we’ve supported North Carolina members impacted by Hurricane Helene.
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