ST. LOUIS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--April 30, 2004--Centene Corporation (NYSE:CNC) announced today that it will webcast its 2004 Annual Meeting of Stockholders. The meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, May 4, 2004, at 10:00 a.m. central time at The Ritz-Carlton, 100 Carondelet Plaza, St. Louis, Missouri 63105. At the meeting, Centene expects Michael Neidorff, its President and Chief Executive Officer, to make remarks regarding Centene's performance and future prospects.

Investors and other interested parties are invited to listen to the webcast on the Company's website at www.centene.com, under the Investor Relations section.

About Centene Corporation

Centene Corporation provides multi-line 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 Indiana, New Jersey, Ohio, Texas and Wisconsin. 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: Centene Corporation Karey L. Witty, 314-725-4477 or Investor Relations: Lisa M. Wilson, 212-759-3929

SOURCE: Centene Corporation