Land of Sky Regional Council

LOS works with the governments in Buncombe, Henderson, Madison and Transylvania counties. They also work with Healthy Opportunities Pilot network members, regional councils, care managers, and transportation providers to ensure HOP participants can access health-related resources no matter where they live in WNC. Depending on the need, LOS can help care managers connect pilot participants to public transportation, taxis or other private transit services. They can even help offset the cost of gas when neighbors or family members provide transportation.

Vicki Jennings, director of strategic initiatives, was excited to join the WNC HOP network. “HOP gives us the opportunity to collaborate across counties to address service gaps.” LOS is also helping smaller service providers participate in HOP. “We’re able to manage some of the pilot’s administrative and billing functions, so these service providers can focus on what they do best—transporting residents.”

After getting positive feedback from their first HOP referral, Vicki was reassured that the pilot program is making a positive impact. “This client was so appreciative that we helped get him to the grocery store. It feels really good to know we are making a difference in people’s lives.”