Supported by new technology, Centene is consistently increasing the ways healthcare can be delivered. Telehealth, also known as virtual medicine or virtual health, helps ease the barriers of travel time, appointment scheduling, and overcrowded emergency departments. The COVID-19 pandemic has further strengthened our belief that telehealth will significantly improve access to healthcare for our most vulnerable populations. Regardless of physical location or scheduling constraints, members are able to contact board-certified physicians or behavioral health providers. For individuals living in rural areas where specialty care options can be limited, telehealth means healthcare is only a click away.

Centene recently created a Medicaid Telehealth Partnership with the National Association of Community Health Centers (NACHC) to help Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) provide telehealth solutions in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. Centene will dedicate $5 million to the partnership's efforts, which will be used to purchase equipment and provide training and technical assistance to FQHCs. Expanding telehealth capabilities during the COVID-19 pandemic, including extending grants to providers living in rural areas to offset the upfront costs of new technology, enables our provider network to continue offering care to our members and communities.

While the COVID-19 pandemic has presented hardships around the world, telehealth offers a valuable solution in accessing quality care. All of Centene's product lines provide access to telehealth services or are in the pilot stages of expanding member access, and the number of members accessing telehealth services continues to rise.

Centene is committed to creating scalable, sustainable solutions that encourage local innovation and continued education.