Do you currently get your Medicaid coverage through UnitedHealthcare in Louisiana? If so, big Louisiana Medicaid changes are coming your way. Starting April 1, 2026, UnitedHealthcare will no longer participate as a managed care organization (MCO) in Louisiana’s Medicaid program.
Here’s the good news: your Medicaid eligibility will not change. If you already qualify for Medicaid, you will continue to qualify. This change only affects which health plan manages your coverage.
Read on to learn more about this change.
Choosing a New Health Plan
Recently, Louisiana Medicaid gave UHC Medicaid beneficiaries the option to choose a different managed care organization (MCO). The special enrollment period ran from January 15 through February 15, 2026.
Members who picked a new Medicaid managed care plan during that time have a choice; they get to choose their preferred plan.
If you didn’t choose a new plan, the state will assign one to you automatically. The goal is to place you in a plan that includes your current doctors whenever possible. They also try to keep family members enrolled in the same plan.
Whether you chose a new plan yourself or had one automatically assigned, your new plan will be active starting April 1st.
New Flexibility for Plan Changes
Another change coming in 2026 gives Medicaid members more control over their coverage. Starting March 31, you’ll be able to change your managed care plan twice a year without needing to give a reason.
If you need to change plans more than twice in a year, it may still be allowed in certain circumstances, but you may need to give a valid reason.
This added flexibility makes it easier to change plans if your healthcare needs change or if your doctors are part of a different network.
Watch for Your New ID Card
Before your new plan begins, your new MCO will send you a welcome packet in the mail. Inside, you’ll find important details about your coverage and information on how to easily access your benefits.
You should receive a new Medicaid ID card in the mail sometime in March 2026. When your new plan starts on April 1, bring that card with you when you go to the doctor, pick up prescriptions, or visit any other healthcare provider.
Staying Up to Date
Louisiana Medicaid transitions like this can leave you with questions. For the most current information about this change, you can check the Louisiana Department of Health website. The department posts updates and guidance here as soon as it becomes available.
We hope you found all the information you were looking for, and we wish you the best as you continue to pursue the benefits you’re entitled to.
