Centene to End Hawaii Medicaid Coverage by Year-End 2026

The insurer will exit the state's Med-QUEST program, impacting 24,000 members currently using the 'Ohana Health Plan.

Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Healthcare

Centene to End Hawaii Medicaid Coverage by Year-End 2026

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Centene has announced that it will cease its participation in Hawaii's Med-QUEST Medicaid program effective December 31, 2026. This move affects 24,000 members who must transition to new health plans before the start of 2027.

Why it matters

The company cited rising medical costs, federal funding changes, and reimbursement rates that failed to keep pace with high acuity needs as primary reasons for its withdrawal. This departure follows nearly two decades of service in the state through the 'Ohana Health Plan.

Centene currently serves 24,000 members in the Med-QUEST program, which covers approximately 400,000 people total in Hawaii. The insurer has participated in the program for 20 years.

The players

Centene

Centene is a publicly traded managed care company that provides government-sponsored healthcare programs.

Med-QUEST

Med-QUEST is the Hawaii state program that provides Medicaid health coverage to eligible low-income residents.

'Ohana Health Plan

'Ohana Health Plan is the managed care entity through which Centene has operated in the Hawaiian market.

The details

Affected members must choose a new health plan during the open enrollment period throughout October 2026, or they will be automatically assigned a provider by Med-QUEST. While Centene is ending this Medicaid service, it will continue to offer a standalone Medicare Advantage prescription drug plan in Hawaii.

September 1, 2026: Centene informed members of the exit via a letter.
October 2026: The open enrollment period occurs for members to select new plans.
December 31, 2026: Centene concludes coverage for 'Ohana Health Plan members.
January 1, 2027: New health plans take effect and updated eligibility requirements begin.

Market Landscape

Centene's exit from the Hawaii market mirrors a broader strategic retreat, as the company is also ending its participation in Arkansas' Medicaid expansion program. This contraction positions the company to focus on markets where financial reimbursement better aligns with their operational costs.

Affected members must actively select a new healthcare plan during the October 2026 open enrollment period to ensure continuous coverage. Those who do not make a selection will be automatically assigned to a new provider by the state.

The takeaway

Patients currently enrolled in the 'Ohana Health Plan should verify their new coverage options early to avoid potential disruptions in care. Reviewing state-provided materials during the October enrollment window is essential for maintaining consistent medical and long-term services.

What happens next

Members of the 'Ohana Health Plan must participate in open enrollment throughout October 2026 to select a new health insurance carrier before the transition deadline of January 1, 2027.