ST. LOUIS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--April 3, 2003--Centene Corporation (Nasdaq: CNTE) announced today that it will release its first quarter 2003 financial results after market close on Wednesday, April 30, 2003 and host a conference call on Thursday, May 1, 2003 at 8:30 AM (Eastern Time) to review the results. Mr. Michael F. Neidorff, president and chief executive officer, and Mr. Karey L. Witty, chief financial officer, of Centene Corporation will host the call.

Investors and other interested parties are invited to listen to the conference call by dialing 800/273-1254, in the U.S. and Canada, 706/679-8592 from abroad, or via a live Internet broadcast on the company's website at www.centene.com, under the Investor Relations section.

A replay will be available for on demand listening shortly after the completion of the call until 11:59 PM (Eastern Time) on May 14, 2003 at the aforementioned website or by dialing 800/642-1687 in the U.S. and Canada, or 706/645-9291 from abroad and entering access code 9309238.

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 operates health plans in Wisconsin, Texas, Indiana and New Jersey. Information regarding Centene is available via the Internet at www.centene.com.

CONTACT: Centene Corporation Michael F. Neidorff, 314/725-4477 or In-Site Communications Investor Relations: Lisa M. Wilson, 212/759-3929

SOURCE: Centene Corporation