Centene’s Buckeye Health Plan wins Ohio Medicaid contract for dual-eligible healthcare

Buckeye Health Plan, a subsidiary of Centene Corporation (NYSE: CNC), has been awarded a significant contract by the Ohio Department of Medicaid (ODM) to serve dual-eligible individuals through a Fully Integrated Dual Eligible Special Needs Plan (FIDE SNP). The plan, which integrates medical, behavioral, and long-term care, ensures comprehensive service under a single managed care organization.

While there will be no immediate changes for current MyCare Ohio members, existing providers will continue their roles until the new Next Generation MyCare plans take effect in January 2026. These plans will cover dually eligible individuals across the 29 counties where MyCare Ohio operates, with a statewide program expansion slated for 2027.

Centene CEO Sarah M. London expressed the company’s commitment to improving healthcare access, highlighting that the FIDE SNP program would streamline services, making it easier for members to prioritize their health without managing multiple plans. Steve Province, President and CEO of Buckeye Health Plan, emphasized Buckeye’s long-standing dedication to serving Ohio’s dual-eligible population, noting their readiness to implement innovative solutions and support members’ health needs through the new contract.

Buckeye, currently serving over 9,000 members across 12 counties through its MMP program, joins three other health plans in delivering high-quality care as part of ODM’s FIDE SNP rollout. The program aims to address barriers to healthcare, enhance social support, and promote patient independence through comprehensive care strategies.

Centene’s approach to expanding integrated care for dual-eligibles

Industry experts underscore that Centene’s selection to continue serving Ohio’s dually eligible individuals reflects its proven record in managing complex healthcare needs. The new contract is anticipated to bolster Centene’s standing in integrated healthcare delivery, a move that aligns with national trends favoring managed care solutions for vulnerable populations.