Proposals to improve care in both Medicaid and Medicare

Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 6, 2024

CONTACT: Lynn Sutfin, 517-2412-2112, [email protected]

MDHHS seeking proposals to improve integrated care
for beneficiaries enrolled in both Medicaid and Medicare

LANSING, Mich. – The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) is seeking proposals to transition the MI Health Link demonstration program into a permanent Highly Integrated Dual Eligible Special Needs Plan, a specific type of Medicare Advantage plan designed to meet the needs of those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid.

In 2014, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) announced it was partnering with Michigan to test a new model for providing individuals who have both Medicare and Medicaid with a more coordinated, person-centered care experience. In May 2022, CMS finalized requirements for the state to transition its model program into a permanent integrated plan.

“This proposal has been developed with robust feedback from community providers and beneficiaries along with lessons learned from the MI Health Link program,” said Elizabeth Hertel, MDHHS director. “MDHHS remains committed to an improved care experience for low-income seniors and people with disabilities who are both Medicare and Medicaid enrollees.”

The Michigan Department of Technology, Management & Budget (DTMB) is managing the request for proposal (RFP) process on behalf of MDHHS. The Highly Integrated Dual Eligible Special Needs Plans RFP is posted on SIGMA Vendor-Self Service system online. To bid on proposals, all vendors must first be registered with SIGMA Vendor Self-Service. Registration is free, and information on how to register and obtain an account to bid on open solicitations is available online: DTMB – How to Register as a Vendor.

Proposals should focus on the following pillars:

• Fostering integration and continuity of care.
• Reducing racial disparities.
• Improving care delivery.
• Promoting patient autonomy and choice of health care and services.
• Building a culture of quality.

Interested bidders are encouraged to refer to the proposal instructions for additional information regarding questions, submittal, and deadlines. Responses from bidders are due Thursday, Aug. 1. Bidders may submit written questions about the RFP through the SIGMA system by Thursday, June 20. MDHHS will post answers to bidder questions on the system by Friday, June 28.