Centene Corporation

Centene Corporation is a American diversified multinational healthcare company that provides a portfolio of services to government-sponsored healthcare programs, focusing on under-insured and uninsured individuals. It operates across the United States and internationally in Spain, among other locations. Centene is the largest provider of Medicaid managed care in the country, and also offers health plans through the Health Insurance Marketplace and Medicare.

History

Centene Corporation was founded in 1984 by Elizabeth "Betty" Brinn in Milwaukee, Wisconsin as a single health plan. It has since expanded through a combination of organic growth and acquisitions. Notable acquisitions include Health Net in 2016, which significantly increased its market presence in the western United States, and WellCare Health Plans in 2020, which expanded its footprint in Medicare and Medicaid services.

Services

Centene provides a range of services and products through its local health plans and subsidiaries. These include managed care for Medicaid, Medicare Advantage plans, integrated Medicare and Medicaid services for dual-eligible individuals, as well as specialty services such as behavioral health, pharmacy benefits management, and correctional healthcare.

Operations

As of the last update, Centene operates in all 50 states and has an international presence. Its business model focuses on partnering with governments to serve the most vulnerable populations, including children, the elderly, and those with disabilities. The company's approach emphasizes local operation, with a structure that allows its local health plans to make decisions that best serve their communities while maintaining the benefits of a large, scalable operation.

Controversies

Like many large healthcare companies, Centene has faced its share of controversies, including lawsuits related to its business practices and the quality of care provided. However, the company maintains that it is committed to transparency, quality, and improving the health of its communities.

Financials

Centene Corporation is listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol CNC. It has seen significant growth in revenue and membership over the years, driven by its expansion into new markets and its strategy of focusing on government-sponsored healthcare programs.

Corporate Social Responsibility

Centene is involved in various corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives, focusing on health education, access to healthcare, and community support. These initiatives aim to address social determinants of health and improve outcomes for the populations Centene serves.

Future Outlook

The future of Centene Corporation appears to be focused on further expansion and leveraging technology to improve healthcare delivery. The company has invested in telehealth and other digital health solutions to increase access to care, especially in underserved areas.