ST. LOUIS, MO., October 16, 2003— Centene Corporation (NYSE: CNC) announced that its common stock has commenced trading on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) with today's opening bell. Shares of Centene's common stock previously traded under the Nasdaq ticker symbol "CNTE".

To celebrate the company's first day of trading on the NYSE, Michael F. Neidorff, president and chief executive officer, rang the opening bell.

Speaking from the floor of the Exchange after trading began, Neidorff stated, “Our listing on the New York Stock Exchange is a truly important event that speaks to Centene's ongoing success and the execution of our long-stated strategy of developing a Medicaid focused, multi-line company. We will continue to provide our members with quality healthcare which results in better outcomes for our recipients and cost-savings to the states in which we operate.”

About Centene Corporation
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). The Company operates health plans in Wisconsin, Texas, Indiana and New Jersey. In addition, the Company contracts with other healthcare organizations to provide specialty services including behavioral health, nurse triage and pharmacy compliance. Information regarding Centene is available via the Internet at www.centene.com.

Contact: Michael F. Neidorff
Chief Executive Officer
Centene Corporation
(314) 725-4477

Lisa M. Wilson
Investor Relations Department
(212) 759-3929