Shapiro Administration Announces New Managed Care Organization Joining CHIP Network, Offering More Affordable Health Care Options for PA Children and Families (January 8, 2026)

On January 8, 2026, the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS) announced that WellKids by PA Health & Wellness will join the network of managed care organizations (MCOs) offering health coverage through the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP). This addition follows the first CHIP re-procurement since 2013 and expands the number of affordable health coverage options available for children across Pennsylvania.

CHIP is a health insurance program for children and teens who are not eligible for Medicaid. CHIP provides affordable or no-cost health coverage through age 19. CHIP covers essential care like routine check-ups and well visits, immunizations, prescriptions, emergency care, mental health services, and dental, vision, and hearing screenings and care.

A family’s income determines the monthly cost of coverage, and no family makes too much for CHIP coverage. When families apply for CHIP for their children, they can pick a CHIP insurance plan that best meets their needs.

PA Heath & Wellness, a subsidiary of Centene Corporation, was newly selected as an MCO for CHIP and will operate under the brand name WellKids by PA Health & Wellness. Leveraging its experience as a Medicaid MCO, including participation in Pennsylvania’s Community HealthChoices program, PA Health & Wellness will serve all counties across the Commonwealth.

WellKids by PA Health & Wellness will provide a full range of services, including preventive, routine, urgent, and emergency care for medical and behavioral health, as well as dental, vision, and pharmacy services.

PA Heath & Wellness has achieved National Committee for Quality Assurance accreditation, including Health Equity Accreditation, demonstrating a strong commitment to quality and equitable care.

Effective January 2026, CHIP will operate with a network of nine MCOs: Aetna, Capital Blue Cross, Geisinger Health Plan, Health Partners Plan, Highmark, Keystone First, United Healthcare, UPMC, and PA Health & Wellness. These MCOs will provide comprehensive health care coverage for eligible children statewide.

For more information about WellKids by PA Health & Wellness, call 1-855-445-1920 or visit the PA Health & Wellness website.

For more information, including how to apply for CHIP, visit DHS’ website.