What is MATCH?
McDowell Access to Care and Health (MATCH) ensures access to whole-person, coordinated care for low-income, uninsured residents by connecting them to resources for medical health, behavioral health, and social safety net resources.
MATCH’s work centers on improving health and economic access through multiple integrated service areas, including ACA navigation, Medicare counseling, Medicaid navigation and safety-net services, Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA), and SSI/SSDI Outreach, Access, and Recovery (SOAR) programming – a national best practice model – for individuals experiencing homelessness or at risk of disability.
Through outreach, co-location and community-based health events, the MATCH team reaches those who could benefit from free primary care, insurance coverage, and referrals to case management and community resources.
For community members who do not qualify for coverage through Medicaid, Medicare, or the ACA Marketplace, MATCH provides access to free or low-cost primary care through local participating providers, medication assistance, and referrals to specialty care and charity care programs.
Areas Served
- McDowell County
- MATCH also partners to support Toe River Project Access (TRPA), a similar network serving Yancey and Mitchell counties.
Federally Certified Navigators
The MATCH Team includes local, federally certified Navigators who provide outreach, education, and enrollment assistance for ACA Marketplace plans. Unlike insurance brokers, Navigators do not earn commissions; the sole focus is on unbiased guidance and support throughout every step of the enrollment process.
Certified SHIIP (Medicare) Counselors
MATCH SHIIP counselors offer free, impartial assistance to Medicare beneficiaries, their families, and caregivers.
Counselors help simplify Medicare by providing individualized education and counseling on enrollment timelines, coverage options, and programs that can reduce out-of-pocket costs.
NC Medicaid Ambassadors
MATCH supports individuals and families through the Medicaid application process, including Medicaid Expansion. They provide clear, accessible information, assist with online applications, and connect community members to additional resources. As trusted community liaisons, Ambassadors also keep residents informed about Medicaid updates and help them navigate Medicaid Managed Care to ensure continued access to care.
Economic Equity and Free Tax Assistance
MATCH plays a vital role in connecting community members to essential services like VITA and Advanced Premium Tax Credits (APTCs), which are key to promoting economic equity.
Through VITA, MATCH helps low- and moderate-income individuals access free, reliable tax preparation, ensuring they receive the full refunds and credits they deserve without incurring extra costs. MATCH also supports clients in understanding and applying for APTCs, making health insurance more affordable by reducing premium costs.
SSI and SSDI Assistance
Through SOAR, MATCH helps clients with serious mental illness or medical impairments navigate the complex application process for Social Security Disability benefits.
Summer THRIVE Series
The MATCH Summer THRIVE Series is a community-centered initiative designed to help families stay connected, informed, and supported all summer long! Through fun and engaging events hosted at the Marion Tailgate Market, the series offers access to vital resources like food, health information and more, all while creating space for play, connection, and learning.
Advocacy
MATCH partners with local, regional, and state leaders to push for policies that expand access to care and promote economic access for ALL people. Whether its participating in collaborative initiatives, offering community insight, or lifting up the voices of those often left unheard, MATCH is committed to shaping systems that work better for everyone.
To request services or make a referral
- MATCH, call 828.659.5289
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. - For TRPA, call 828.766.1850