Centene Offers Buyouts After Losing 2 Million ACA Members, Expands Grant Programs
CNC•Centene lost 2 million ACA members this year after COVID-era subsidy expiration, prompting a voluntary separation program with opt-in by July 2 for eligible employees. Its 61,000-strong workforce faces potential layoffs while its MHS unit launches $50,000–$500,000 Indiana grants and Superior HealthPlan wins working-parent workplace recognition in Texas.
1. ACA Membership Decline and Employee Buyouts
Centene has seen ACA plan membership drop by about 2 million this year following the end of expanded COVID-era marketplace subsidies. To manage costs, the company emailed staff about a voluntary separation program, inviting eligible employees to opt in by July 2 as it prepares for potential restructuring and layoffs within its 61,000-strong workforce.
2. MHS Indiana Workforce Support Program
Through its MHS subsidiary, Centene opened applications for the Serves Workforce Support Program in Indiana, offering Tier 1 grants of $50,000–$150,000 for direct employment services and Tier 2 grants of $300,000–$500,000 for regional workforce coordination. Nonprofit partners must serve set participant targets and report outcomes on employment placement, credential completion and job retention, with applications accepted through June 19.
3. Superior HealthPlan Working-Parent Recognition
Superior HealthPlan in Texas earned Best Place for Working Parents status for the sixth consecutive year by offering up to 14 weeks of fully paid parental and caregiver leave, remote and hybrid work options for over 95% of staff, adoption expense reimbursement, and health incentive programs aimed at supporting employees’ well-being.
