How has Medicaid managed care changed since the State began its program in 1997?
Since the mandatory Medicaid managed care program started in 1997, enrollment in managed care has grown dramatically to more than two million Medicaid beneficiaries. A lot of progress has been made toward improving the quality of and comprehensiveness of care in managed care plans. Managed care plans have increased the number of physicians who participate in their Medicaid programs. Member satisfaction has improved. Managed care plans have helped shift the focus of medical care to the primary care setting where a primary care provider works with specialists and other service providers to help keep members healthy. Medicaid managed care plans have shown that they can help members with chronic medical conditions and mental health service needs get access to services.
