West Virginia approves Highmark Health Options as MCO for Medicaid beneficiaries

By Staff Reporters , The Parkersburg News and Sentinel / January 20, 2024

CHARLESTON — Highmark Health Options West Virginia will be a managed care organization for Medicaid-eligible West Virginians after approval was recently given by the West Virginia Department of Human Services Bureau.

Highmark Health Options West Virginia Blue Cross and Blue Shield-branded health plans will be an option for state Medicaid beneficiaries beginning in June for a July 1, 2024, coverage date, according to press releases from Highmark and the West Virginia Department of Human Services Bureau.

“Highmark Health Options West Virginia is a mission-driven organization dedicated to the health and well-being of our members, our team members and the communities we serve,” said Jason Landers, president of Highmark Health Options West Virginia. “We appreciate the trust the state has shown in us through this selection. It’s an honor and privilege to serve all West Virginians, and a responsibility we don’t take lightly.

“We are excited to provide a Blue Cross Blue Shield insurance plan that will make the state proud.”

Highmark Inc., Highmark Health Options West Virginia’s parent company, has a 30-plus-year history serving Medicaid enrollees. Highmark, one of the 10 largest health insurers in the United States, cares for more than 500,000 Medicaid beneficiaries across three states.

The Bureau for Medical Services is the state agency responsible for the administration of West Virginia’s Medicaid program.

“This partnership is a testament to our unwavering commitment to the well-being of West Virginians,” Commissioner Cindy Beane of the Bureau for Medical Services said. “It signifies our continued commitment to ensuring comprehensive and accessible health services for our Medicaid members and fostering a healthier tomorrow for all.”

The statewide contract runs for four years. Building a team to support this new business is among the next steps for HHO WV.

“We intend to staff HHO WV with West Virginia-based team members,” said Landers, a West Virginia native. “As we grow, we will favor staff located in and working from West Virginia.”

Highmark Health Options West Virginia’s investment in the state and in the health of West Virginians will extend beyond hospitals, health systems and providers.

Discussions are being held with community-based organizations to generate interest in joining a social care network that will address the foremost social needs of its members and the communities in which they live, according to the press releases.

“In addition to offering members access to the best healthcare systems in the state, we’ll be active and visible community partners,” Landers said. “Up to 80% of a person’s health is determined by the conditions in which they are born, grow, live, work and age.

“Healthy individuals live in healthy communities. We’ll invest in the strong network of grassroots community organizations and nonprofits throughout the state to improve the lives of not only our members, but of everyone who lives in West Virginia.”

West Virginians can enroll beginning in June.