Wake County partners launch innovative data sharing initiative for health and housing

The Wake County government meeting on April 7, 2025, focused on a new pilot project aimed at enhancing data sharing among community health providers to improve care coordination for vulnerable populations. The initiative, referred to as the "Familiar Faces" program, seeks to integrate health, housing, and criminal justice data to better serve individuals with complex needs.

Key discussions highlighted the importance of collaboration among various local organizations, including housing programs, hospitals, and behavioral health clinics. The pilot partners include notable entities such as UNC Health System, Triangle Family Services, and WakeMed, all of which are committed to using shared data to inform care decisions and improve outcomes for individuals who frequently interact with multiple service systems.

The project aims to leverage existing state resources, particularly the North Carolina Health Information Exchange, to facilitate access to critical data. This approach is designed to provide a comprehensive view of individuals' health and social circumstances, enabling service providers to make informed decisions in real-time. The initiative is expected to not only benefit Wake County but also serve as a model for other counties in North Carolina, with discussions already underway with larger counties like Guilford and Durham.

The phased implementation plan aims for a fully operational data sharing system by December 2026. In the interim, pilot partners are actively working to enhance collaboration and service coordination, even before the technology is fully in place. The overall goal is to create a more holistic, human-centered approach to care that addresses the root causes of health issues, ultimately reducing reliance on emergency services and improving the quality of life for vulnerable individuals.

As the project progresses, Wake County officials expressed optimism about its potential to scale statewide, fostering a more integrated and efficient system of care across North Carolina.