Ohio Launched Statewide Next Generation MyCare Program
Dually eligible residents were automatically assigned to new Medicaid managed care plans this fall.
Updated on Oct. 3, 2026 in Eldercare
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As of August 1, 2026, Ohio implemented its Next Generation MyCare program statewide to streamline coordination for residents dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. The state began auto-assigning individuals to specific managed care plans in September 2026.
Why it matters
This program aims to simplify healthcare management for dually eligible Ohioans by processing both Medicare and Medicaid claims through a single plan. Consolidating coverage is designed to create more efficient administrative coordination for patients with complex medical needs.
The statewide rollout involves four managed care plans tasked with integrating claim processing. While the state utilized existing provider contract data to facilitate auto-assignments, the specific health outcomes for residents under this new coordination model remain under investigation.
The players
Ohio Department of Medicaid
The state agency responsible for overseeing medical assistance programs and implementing the MyCare transition for dually eligible Ohioans.
Anthem
A contracted managed care organization providing insurance and health services as part of the state's Medicaid program.
Buckeye
A health plan provider selected by the state to manage Medicaid services under the Next Generation MyCare program.
CareSource
A managed care plan entity contracted to coordinate health benefits for Ohio residents.
Molina
A health insurance company providing managed care services for the state's dually eligible population.
The details
The Next Generation MyCare program functions by routing both Medicare and Medicaid services through a unified managed care entity. By aligning claims through one plan, the state intends to improve communication between providers and simplify the billing landscape for patients. Residents received notification letters detailing their specific plan assignments, though they retain a 60-day window to request a change if their current assignment does not meet their provider preferences.
Timeline
Aug. 1, 2026: Next Generation MyCare became statewide.
August 2026: Second round of auto-assignment letters issued.
Sept. 1, 2026: First round of auto-assigned individuals transitioned.
Oct. 1, 2026: Second round of auto-assigned individuals transitioned.
Oct. 15 to Dec. 7, 2026: Annual Medicare Open Enrollment Period.
Health Landscape
Ohio's transition follows the national trend of implementing integrated managed care models for dually eligible individuals. This shift marks a departure from fragmented billing toward a unified coordination strategy favored by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services.
Residents who received an auto-assignment notification have 60 days to evaluate if the assigned plan includes their preferred doctors. If you have questions about your specific plan or need to verify your coverage, consult with your physician or contact the Ohio Medicaid Consumer Hotline at 800-324-8680.
The takeaway
The transition to a unified care plan aims to simplify the coordination of Medicare and Medicaid benefits. Residents should confirm their current plan details and remember that Medicare-specific plans require manual enrollment outside of the state's Medicaid-focused auto-assignment process.
Further reading
Learn more about local support services and program changes in our Eldercare section.
More information
Review your plan details or find additional resources on the Ohio Medicaid consumer information portal.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Jenkins Care Community.
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