ST. LOUIS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Nov. 19, 2002--Centene Corporation (Nasdaq:CNTE) announced today the appointment of John D. Tadich to the newly created position of Senior Vice President of Specialty Companies, effective immediately. Mr. Tadich will oversee the development of Centene's strategic entry to specialty companies.

Mr. Tadich has over 25 years experience in the managed care industry, and has held management and consulting positions with leading healthcare companies. He spent eight years with United HealthCare where he served in increasingly senior positions, ultimately serving as President of United Behavioral Health, a specialty company within United HealthCare.

Michael F. Neidorff, Centene's President and Chief Executive Officer, stated, "John is a recognized and experienced leader in this industry, and we are pleased to welcome him to Centene. His appointment will enable us to move forward on our previously stated goal of expanding our focus on specialty companies, including NurseWise and diversification opportunities in behavioral health and other underserved fee-for-service areas. We believe that entering this area will enable us to further expand our growth in our current markets while still entering new markets through acquisitions."

Mr. Tadich previously served as Vice President, Small Group Services at Blue Cross of California and as a Regional Manager in several U.S. markets for Great-West Life, a leading Canadian life and health insurer. He holds a BS degree in Business Administration from the University of Colorado in Boulder and an MBA from the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul, Minnesota.

Centene Corporation provides managed care programs and related services to individuals receiving benefits under Medicaid, including Supplemental Security Income (SSI), and the State Children's Health Insurance Program (SCHIP). Centene currently operates health plans in Wisconsin, Indiana and Texas. Information regarding Centene is available via the Internet at www.centene.com.

--30--SH/na*