Tailoring statewide training for local impact: a Burke County Public Health case study

Addressing health-related social needs is crucial for improving health outcomes, especially for vulnerable populations. NCCARE360 is North Carolina's statewide coordinated care platform powered by Unite Us.1 Burke County Public Health (BCPH) identified gaps in the standardized NCCARE360 training, prompting a tailored approach. Using the Plan-Do-Study-Act cycle, BCPH refined training materials with interactive guides, real-life scenarios, and one-on-one sessions. This adaptation led to increased staff engagement and improved referral outcomes. Recognized as a model for local implementation, BCPH's approach signifies the importance of customizing statewide initiatives to meet local operational realities. This case highlights the value of iterative training improvements for optimizing public health interventions in resource-limited settings. Effective use of NCCARE360 will enhance referrals to essential services, helping to address barriers caused by the social determinants of health often seen in the larger Appalachian Region.2.