Patrick’s Perspective: A Defining Year for Our Mission

2026 is shaping up to be a pivotal year, one that will bring both challenges and opportunities for CareSource, our members and the future of managed care.

The policy and financial decisions being made at the state and federal levels will have a long-term impact on the members we serve. Through it all, we remain focused on advocating for decisions that support access, affordability and stability.

State Market Focus Areas

Across every market we serve, our team is actively engaging with legislators, regulators and key stakeholders to advocate for:

• Adequacy and actuarially sound Medicaid rates
  Our government affairs team is engaging with Medicaid agencies and administrations to advocate for rates that reflect the real cost of care.
  
  
• Risk adjustment and appropriate membership distribution
  A fair and accurate system is critical to maintaining stability across the market and ensuring that plans are equipped to serve complex populations.
  
  
• Thoughtful expansion of populations into managed care
  Managed care expansion is linked to improved access to care, better health outcomes and economic benefits for states and providers. Ohio’s Next Generation MyCare program is a strong example of coordinated, person-centered care in action. 
  
  
• Healthcare affordability and plan mandates
  As states navigate significant shifts and new requirements, focus must remain on improving affordability while protecting access.

Key Federal Priorities

At the federal level, several issues will continue to shape the landscape of managed care:

• Fraud, waste and abuse
  Strengthening program integrity is a federal priority. CareSource remains dedicated to preventing, identifying, investigating, correcting and reporting fraud, waste and abuse while protecting access to care.
  
  
• Marketplace solvency
  With the expiration of enhanced Affordable Care Act (ACA) subsidies, which lowered insurance premiums for millions, long-term marketplace sustainability is a growing concern.
  
  
• Implementation of H.R. 1
  As the One Big Beautiful Bill Act is interpreted and implemented, CareSource is prepared to support states as they navigate federal work requirements for Medicaid recipients.

Building Relationships, Preparing for What’s Next

With fall elections on the horizon, our Government Affairs team is also focused on building relationships with gubernatorial candidates and future administration leaders across our states.

This proactive work ensures new leaders understand the value of managed care and the role CareSource plays in improving health outcomes for the members we serve.

Final Thoughts

The year ahead will require ongoing focus and thoughtful collaboration. I am confident in the work we are doing together. Your engagement and support are making a meaningful impact, ensuring our members’ voices are at the center of policy conversations.

If you haven’t already, I invite you to join or renew your support of CareSource Mission in 2026 and be a part of this important work shaping the future of managed care.