Centene Corporation announced that its subsidiary, Meridian Health Plan of Illinois, has been awarded a contract by the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services to continue providing services for dually eligible Medicare and Medicaid members through a Fully Integrated Dual Eligible Special Needs Plan (D-SNP). The contract, beginning January 1, 2026, and running through December 31, 2029, includes an option for renewal for up to 10 years.

Meridian will serve 77,000 dually eligible individuals across Illinois, expanding to 60,000 additional Managed Long Term Services and Supports members in 2027. The plan will focus on integrating medical, behavioral, and social care to improve health outcomes and reduce disparities.

Centene CEO Sarah M. London emphasized the company’s commitment to addressing the unique healthcare needs of dually eligible individuals. Meridian has served Illinois since 2008 and is one of four health plans selected for the program.

Centene, a Fortune 500 company, provides government-sponsored healthcare programs, including Medicaid and Medicare, to more than one in 15 individuals nationwide. The company focuses on accessible, high-quality, and cost-effective healthcare solutions.