CareSource and Ohio Children’s Alliance Announce Collaboration to Serve Ohio Children’s Behavioral Health Needs

The collaboration, known as Kids’ CareAlliance^TM, offers a local approach to behavioral health.

(DAYTON, OH – November 24, 2020) – CareSource, a nationally recognized nonprofit health plan, and the Ohio Children’s Alliance, a statewide network of community agencies who serve children and families, have announced a new collaboration called Kids’ CareAlliance. Kids’ CareAlliance builds on the strengths of both organizations and intends to submit a bid on the OhioRISE (Resilience through Integrated Systems and Excellence) business that was formally announced by the Ohio Department of Medicaid on October 28.

“While CareSource has collaborated closely with the Ohio Children’s Alliance to care for multi-system youth for nearly a decade, we are now creating a organization dedicated to breaking down silos and getting to the heart of family-centered care,” said Steve Ringel, CareSource Ohio Market President. “Often, children with complex behavioral health needs engage with multiple providers and services at the same time. Kids’ CareAlliance’s focused approach will significantly improve this coordination.”

The two organizations will leverage their combined strengths and experience working with Ohioans at the state and local level to build a specialized managed care program for youth with complex behavioral health and multi-system needs. Kids’ CareAlliance provides a powerful blend of both a leading managed care organization with 30 years of experience and an organization that cultivates and manages projects that advance health care improvements. The Ohio Children’s Alliance also manages an innovative statewide program that equips former foster youth for success in adulthood. The organizations have collaborated on multiple projects including establishing innovative advocacy strategies for policy and funding decisions to promote behavioral health services and providers across three administrations.

“Our collaboration with CareSource has amplified our ability to improve the system of care for children and families in Ohio,” said Mark Mecum Chief Executive Officer of the Ohio Children’s Alliance. “Together, we are implementing innovative and outside-the-box solutions that empower kids and families to succeed.” 

CareSource is known as an innovator in the health care industry and has been a leader in tackling key issues surrounding behavioral health. With a unique member-centric focus, the organization has developed game-changing programs around the Medicaid member that are market-tested.

“Kids’ CareAlliance is ready to collaborate and holds a fierce commitment to solutions that are community-based, member-driven and Ohio-centric, to ensure that all Ohio children and their families are heard,” said Tia Marcel Moretti, CareSource Ohio’s Director of Behavioral Health. “We aim to reduce the burdens of navigating health care systems while providing children and families with health, stability and the opportunity to thrive.”

About Ohio Children’s Alliance

Founded in 1973, the Ohio Children’s Alliance is a non-profit statewide mission-driven organization based in Columbus, Ohio. For nearly a half century, the Alliance has equipped community agencies for success through advocacy, education, and member support.  The Alliance works to establish a statewide system of care that is integrated, efficient, and beneficial to those that matter most – children and families.  Learn more at www.ohiochildrensalliance.org.