Ohio begins process of rebidding Medicaid managed care contracts

The Ohio Department of Medicaid wants input from consumers, their advocates and health care providers as it seeks new contracts with managed care companies that oversee care for most Medicaid enrollees in the state (Source: “Medicaid starts process to hire new managed care companies,” Columbus Dispatch, June 13, 2019).

“We want firsthand experience about what’s working and what’s not. ... We want to hear from everyone who wants to be heard,” Medicaid Director Maureen Corcoran said.

The department posted a “request for information” on its website Thursday. Interested parties can submit written feedback to about 35 questions or request a meeting with agency officials.

Soliciting feedback is the first step in the lengthy procurement process and will help Medicaid officials develop a formal request for proposals from managed care companies interested in the work.

Gov. Mike DeWine directed Medicaid in January to rebid managed care contracts, in large part to crack down on the costly and opaque practices of the pharmacy benefit managers the providers hire to oversee prescription drug benefits. New contracts tentatively will take effect in January 2021.