ST. LOUIS, April 15, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Centene Corporation (NYSE: CNC) today announced that Celtic Group's subsidiary, CeltiCare Health Plan of Massachusetts, Inc. (CeltiCare), has renewed its contract with the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to serve Commonwealth Care members, effective July 1, 2011.

CeltiCare will continue to be a lowest-cost health plan option for low-income, working adults (up to 300% of the federal poverty level) enrolled in the Commonwealth Care program.

"CeltiCare is pleased to continue our partnership with Massachusetts to offer low-cost, quality healthcare to its residents," said CeltiCare President and Chief Executive Officer Richard D. Lynch.  "We are proud to participate in this unique 'exchange-based' coverage solution that offers uninsured individuals affordable, comprehensive healthcare options."

The financial impact of the renewal of the Commonwealth Care contract was already assumed in Centene's 2011 financial guidance.

About Centene Corporation

Centene Corporation, a Fortune 500 company, is a leading multi-line healthcare enterprise that provides programs and related services to the rising number of under-insured and uninsured individuals.  Many receive benefits provided under Medicaid, including the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP), as well as Aged, Blind or Disabled (ABD), Foster Care, long-term care, other state-sponsored programs and Medicare (Special Needs Plans).  Centene's CeltiCare subsidiary offers states unique "exchange-based" and other cost-effective coverage solutions for low-income populations.  The Company operates local health plans and offers a range of health insurance solutions.  It also contracts with other healthcare and commercial organizations to provide specialty services including behavioral health, life and health management, managed vision, telehealth services, and pharmacy benefits management.  More information regarding Centene is available at www.centene.com.

SOURCE Centene Corporation