On May 22, 2026, the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Devdutta Sangvai approved the merger of Vaya Health and Partners Health Management, which will take effect on October 1, 2026. This consolidation will form Vaya Partners, the largest publicly governed behavioral health organization in North Carolina, dedicated to providing integrated care for individuals with complex needs including mental health issues, substance use disorders, and intellectual/developmental disabilities. The new organization will serve over 222,000 members across 47 counties, enhancing the stability and effectiveness of the public behavioral health system. Tracy Hayes, the current CEO of Vaya Health, will lead Vaya Partners, ensuring continuity and expertise from both organizations. Importantly, existing services and benefits for members will remain unchanged during the transition, with a focus on maintaining care quality and community support. This merger is positioned to strengthen the collective mission of improving lives and fostering healthier communities throughout North Carolina.