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MHS Launches Statewide Program to Support Medicaid Members in Employment

Managed Health Services (MHS), a subsidiary of Centene Corporation, has revealed exciting news for Indiana’s Medicaid members. With the launch of the MHS Serves Workforce Support Program, this initiative aims to bridge the gap between healthcare access and employment opportunities for individuals eligible for Medicaid. The program will provide crucial funding to nonprofit organizations that are focused on improving workforce development across the state.

Program Overview

Starting from June 16, 2026, applications are officially open for nonprofit organizations operating within Indiana. These groups will gain the resources needed to help Medicaid members overcome various employment barriers. Many Medicaid recipients aspire to work or better their career situations; however, numerous obstacles, including limited transportation options, childcare, and connectivity issues, often hinder their job searches.

The application window will remain open until June 19, 2026, and organizations can submit their proposals through the MHS Serves online portal. The funding aims to significantly enhance existing workforce programs and help individuals secure long-term employment, thus, contributing towards economic stability and health equity.

Two-Tier Grant System

The funds will be distributed through a two-tier grant system designed to address both direct services and broader regional support:

• - Tier 1 Grants: These grants range between $50,000 to $150,000 and are aimed at community-based organizations that provide direct services to Medicaid members, helping them with immediate employment resources and training.
• - Tier 2 Grants: Ranging from $300,000 to $500,000, these grants are designated for organizations working on a regional scale. Their goal is to facilitate collaboration among various workforce partners, align employer needs with training programs, and monitor employment outcomes across communities, thus enhancing the workforce infrastructure throughout Indiana.

Significance of Employment in Health Initiatives

According to MHS Plan President and CEO, Christina Hage, employment represents a vital element in achieving long-term health and economic stability. The new program not only focuses on delivering services to individuals but also strengthens the systems that bolster workforce success. By collaborating with various stakeholders, MHS aims to create lasting impacts for members of the Indiana Medicaid program.

This workforce initiative perfectly aligns with upcoming changes to the Medicaid structure under H.R.1, which will require certain adults to meet new standards for work or community engagement. MHS plans to work closely with county and state partners to ensure Medicaid members receive timely guidance through these changes.

Building on Previous Success

The Workforce Support Program builds on the foundations laid by MHS Serves, which began in 2023 in partnership with the Indiana Minority Health Coalition and Black Onyx Management. This earlier initiative sought to improve healthcare access and explore social determinants of health through community-focused solutions. Over 21 counties have already benefited from MHS Serves, improving access to digital healthcare and reaching thousands of individuals in need.

In the previous funding round, MHS invested $1.2 million into 19 organizations focused on enhancing healthcare resources, particularly for youth, showcasing how targeted interventions can successfully reduce barriers to care.

Further Information

Organizations interested in applying for the grants can find more details and submissions by visiting mhsserves.org. For any inquiries, they can also reach out via email at [email protected]. This initiative marks a significant step towards ensuring that Indiana's Medicaid members not only receive healthcare access but are also supported in their employment journeys, paving the way for improved health outcomes and community resilience.

Through such dedicated efforts, MHS continues to demonstrate its commitment to helping individuals achieve healthier lives, thereby contributing to overall community wellness across Indiana.