ST. LOUIS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Centene Corporation (NYSE: CNC) today announced that Sherry B. Husa has been appointed President and Chief Executive Officer of Centene's Wisconsin subsidiary, Managed Health Services (MHS), effective immediately. Ms. Husa is based in the MHS corporate office in Milwaukee and reports to Christopher D. Bowers, Senior Vice President, Health Plan Business Unit.

Mark W. Eggert, Centene's Executive Vice President, Health Plan Business Unit, stated, "Ms. Husa is a seasoned healthcare executive with a particular depth of knowledge in medical management and provider network contracting. Her background will serve MHS well in realizing its vision to provide access to comprehensive, quality healthcare at lower costs."

Ms. Husa has more than 21 years of healthcare experience. Most recently, she was President of Great-West Healthcare in Chicago, where she supervised several departments including medical management, healthcare economics and provider services. Under Ms. Husa's leadership, the company increased its network by 100 hospitals and more than 16,000 physicians. Previously, Ms. Husa worked in several executive positions including Regional Vice President of Contracting for CIGNA HealthCare and Regional Director of Network Development and Operations for Humana Health Care Plans.

Ms. Husa graduated with honors from Illinois State University, where she also received a master's degree. In addition, she received a master's degree in Business Administration from Benedictine University.

About Centene Corporation

Centene Corporation is a leading multi-line healthcare enterprise that provides programs and related services to individuals receiving benefits under Medicaid, including the State Children's Health Insurance Program (SCHIP), Foster Care, Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Medicare (Special Needs Plans). The Company operates health plans in Arizona, Georgia, Indiana, New Jersey, Ohio, South Carolina, Texas and Wisconsin. In addition, the Company contracts with other healthcare and commercial organizations to provide specialty services including behavioral health, life and health management, long-term care, managed vision, nurse triage, pharmacy benefits management and treatment compliance. Information regarding Centene is available via the Internet at www.centene.com.

Source: Centene Corporation