Centene’s Subsidiary Centurion Growing Share in Correctional Healthcare

Centene Corporation’s subsidiary Centurion has been awarded a contract by the Kansas Department of Administration to provide healthcare services in the Department of Corrections’ (DOC) facilities. The two-year contract is expected to commence on July 1, 2020 and include two, two-year renewal options.

Centurion provides correctional healthcare and staffing services to government agencies in 17 states. Centene, in 2018, acquired MHM Services, a national provider of healthcare and staffing services to correctional systems and other government agencies. Centene also acquired MHM’s 49 percent ownership of Centurion, the correctional healthcare services joint venture between Centene and MHM.

The acquisition expanded Centene’s national footprint while providing additional clinical capabilities. MHM has extensive experience providing physical and behavioral health services for government programs and enhances a platform for innovative care delivery models.

There are approximately 2.2 million people in American prisons. This number has grown by 500 percent in the past 30 years. Inmates have high rates of chronic medical conditions, especially viral infections. In addition, substance abuse and mental illness are common among inmates. 

AMI estimates that the market for correctional healthcare represents a $9 billion opportunity. Nationally, the top five companies, including Centurion, provide healthcare for approximately 45% of the total U.S. market. 

By combining sound financial discipline with the delivery of appropriate care, Centurion is gaining recognition among states as a top correctional healthcare provider.

Takeaway: Centurion has maintained a solid growth position in the development pipeline of Centene’s core businesses platform.