ST. LOUIS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--April 21, 2005--Centene Corporation (NYSE:CNC) announced today that Tommy G. Thompson, former Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary and former Governor of Wisconsin, was elected to the Company's board of directors on April 21, 2005 for an initial two-year term as a Class II director. With nearly 40 years of his career devoted to public service, Governor Thompson is recognized for his candor and as an advocate for the health and welfare of all Americans.

Michael F. Neidorff, Centene's Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, stated, "We proudly welcome Governor Thompson, for whom we have a great deal of respect given his many achievements as Governor of Wisconsin and at HHS. His extensive experience and substantial contributions to the development of sound public policy will help Centene to evolve to the appropriate paradigm under which healthcare is provided to low-income recipients."

David L. Steward, member of the Centene board and chair of the Governance Committee, added, "The board and I look forward to working with Governor Thompson and anticipate his meaningful participation in driving policies and programs to ensure the Medicaid population receives the highest quality care in a cost-effective manner."

Governor Thompson began his career in public service in 1966 as a representative in Wisconsin's state Assembly. In 1986, he was elected to the first of four consecutive terms as Governor; he made state history when elected to the third and fourth terms. In 2001, President Bush selected Governor Thompson as the 19th head of HHS, a post he held until 2005. During his long and distinguished public career, Governor Thompson has received innumerable awards and commendations.

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, Kansas, Missouri, 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 Investor Relations: Lisa M. Wilson, 212-759-3929

SOURCE: Centene Corporation