Formed after the merger between OPTIONS and Value Behavioral Health in 1998, ValueOptions is one of the largest independent health care organizations in the United States. It provides medical care services to more than 20 million individuals through contracts with state and county agencies, as well as several health plans. The organization offers smoking cessation and substance abuse management programs, as well as provides treatment to individuals to cope up with disabilities. In addition to cardiac disease and diabetes cure services, ValueOptions offers a life coaching program that trains patients in the areas of nutrition, stress and weight management. The organization additionally provides phone-based health education on various topics, such as cancer, cardiovascular problems, pregnancy, headaches and fitness.