LINCOLN, Neb. — Open enrollment for Nebraskans who receive their health coverage through Medicaid’s Heritage Health managed care delivery system began Nov. 1 and ends Dec.15. Heritage Health combines physical health, behavioral health and pharmacy programs into a single coordinated system for Medicaid and Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) clients.

“In Heritage Health’s first year of operation, we’ve found that Medicaid members have had more opportunities for preventive care, and more consistent, all-inclusive coverage through the integration of services and better communication among primary care and behavioral health providers,” said Thomas “Rocky” Thompson, interim director of the Division of Medicaid and Long-Term Care at the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS). “Heritage Health is improving health outcomes and promotes the financial sustainability of Medicaid services in our state.”

Members can choose from three health plans: Nebraska Total Care, UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of Nebraska and WellCare of Nebraska. Those enrolled who wish to stay with their 2017 plan will be automatically re-enrolled. Those new enrollees who do not choose a plan will have one selected for them after the open enrollment period has concluded.

In addition to covering all medically necessary services within Medicaid managed care, each of Heritage Health’s three managed care organizations — Nebraska Total Care, UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of Nebraska and WellCare of Nebraska — offer additional services designed to encourage wellness and help prevent major health issues before they arise. They may include, for example, maternity programs aimed at helping mothers receive necessary prenatal care assistance; weight loss programs to help members reach and maintain a healthy weight, as well as supportive resources to encourage greater self-sufficiency for young adults transitioning out of foster care into independence and Medicaid members able to work. Each plan may provide different add-on services so members should consider which one would be best for them.

Members can learn more about these plans in a few ways. Information is online at www.neheritagehealth.com. An automated phone enrollment system is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, at 888-255-2605, with counselors available to help from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. CST Monday through Friday.

For those using the automated line or wishing to talk with a counselor to make a change or to help others make a change, have the following information available: Name, Address and Date of birth.

The Medicaid ID number, Social Security number, or PIN for the eligible person

Additional information about Heritage Health, including frequently asked questions, fact sheets, public events and additional resources are available on the Heritage Health webpage at www.dhhs.ne.gov/HeritageHealth.

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Medicaid Heritage Health Open Enrollment Now Under Way