Indianapolis-based Managed Health Services announced the creation of MHS Serves, a $12 million program to improve health equity efforts statewide.
The program is aimed at reducing and eliminating health disparities by supporting community-based programs and resources across Indiana, including underserved and historically marginalized communities in Northwest Indiana.
“I’m proud to announce the creation of MHS Serves, our statewide health equity program several years in the making,” said Kevin O’Toole, MHS president and CEO, in a press release. “MHS’ mission is to transform the health of the community we serve, one person at a time.”
MHS Serves will collaborate with Indiana Minority Health Coalition and Black Onyx Management to manage the program. IMHC works to eliminate health disparities through research, education, advocacy and access to health care services for minority populations. Black Onyx Management’s mission is to advance diversity, equity and inclusion by developing programs and implementing projects and trainings.
“We understand that the social determinants of health impact so much of our daily living,” said Marshawn Wolley, Black Onyx Management president and CEO. “We are looking forward to the opportunity to empower community-based organizations to support an improved quality of life for communities around the state.”
The first partnership opportunity, Broadband Access Strategic Partnership, will enable organizations in marginalized communities to have increased broadband access to support internet and technology adoption. Areas such as the northern portions of Lake and Porter counties have gaps in broadband access. More information about applying for partnership funding is here.
Managed Health Services is a managed care entity that serves Indiana through the Hoosier Healthwise and Hoosier Care Connect Medicaid programs and the Healthy Indiana Plan Medicaid alternative program. MHS membership is high among Hoosiers living in Northwest Indiana. Founded over 25 years ago, MHS is a subsidiary of Centene Corp.
