#USA #Baltimore #Medicaid #HealthCare Access Maryland #Centurion Health

Enhancing Healthcare Access for Justice-Involved Individuals

In a significant development for healthcare accessibility, HealthCare Access Maryland (HCAM) has teamed up with Centurion Health to provide essential support for justice-involved individuals. Their five-year collaboration aims at ensuring that all individuals within Maryland's correctional system maintain active Medicaid coverage, facilitating their smooth transition back into society.

With the hiring of 14 certified application counselors, HCAM is set to offer vital enrollment assistance to these individuals. This dedicated team will not only help them understand their health benefits but also guide them on how to navigate the often complex healthcare system. As Traci Kodeck, CEO of HealthCare Access Maryland puts it, “Navigating the health care system – including accessing and using one's Medicaid benefits – can be a challenge for anyone. For those re-entering the community after incarceration, this challenge can be especially daunting.”

Research has shown that having Medicaid coverage upon release significantly increases the likelihood of accessing community health services. Those enrolled in Medicaid are more inclined to receive timely medical attention compared to those without such coverage. This collaboration aims to address a critical need in supporting individuals' successful reintegration into society, thereby improving health outcomes and reducing rates of recidivism.

Moreover, the partnership recognizes the diverse and complex healthcare needs often faced by justice-involved individuals. Many require ongoing mental health services and support, particularly in the days and months following their release. A study focusing on Medicaid enrollment and mental health service usage demonstrated that those who were enrolled in Medicaid at the time of their release benefited from quicker access to community-based health services. They were also more likely to receive an increased volume of healthcare within the first 90 days post-release.

Centurion Health, a national leader in providing comprehensive healthcare for incarcerated individuals, emphasizes the importance of continuity of care. Their commitment not only focuses on delivering essential health services but also on empowering those they serve to realize their full potential. Tim Harlin, Centurion's CEO, stated, “By focusing on continuity of care, we are addressing a critical need that supports successful re-entry, improves health outcomes, and reduces recidivism.”

The collaboration between HCAM and Centurion Health marks a meaningful partnership reflecting a shared vision of quality care accessible to all. Centurion operates across 325 locations in 13 states, assisting over 275,000 individuals.

About HealthCare Access Maryland (HCAM)
HCAM is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving health and health equity in Maryland. They provide one-on-one assistance to individuals and families seeking affordable coverage, addressing barriers to healthcare access. Each year, HCAM supports over 80,000 individuals, ensuring everyone in Maryland has the opportunity to achieve better health outcomes.

About Centurion Health
Centurion Health specializes in medical, dental, behavioral health, and rehabilitative services for incarcerated persons. They strive to go beyond traditional patient care, focusing on fostering the potential of individuals within the justice system.

Together, HealthCare Access Maryland and Centurion Health are setting a standard for how community health services can effectively support individuals navigating the complex transition from incarceration to society. As they continue to address these pressing needs, we can hope to see healthier and more empowered communities emerging from this crucial endeavor.