As of Sept. 1, the Texas Health and Human Services Commission has a new contract for the STAR+PLUS Medicaid program. Given the changes to STAR+PLUS, now may be a good time to review and compare options.

Whether readers are a beneficiary affected by these recent changes, navigating the enrollment process for the first time, or a caregiver helping a loved one get started, this information may be of interest.

In this article, readers will find the key information they need to know about STAR+PLUS.

What is STAR+PLUS, and who qualifies?

STAR+PLUS is a Texas Medicaid-managed care program for adults who have disabilities or are age 65 or older. People enrolled in STAR+PLUS receive Medicaid benefits through a health plan of their choice.

STAR+PLUS provides health care services, such as doctor visits, and long-term services and supports (LTSS), (such as helping in your home with daily activities), home modifications, respite (short-term supervision), personal assistance and prescription medications.

Coverage with UnitedHealthcare

UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of Texas has been serving Medicaid members across the state for over 25 years and is one of the health plans currently administering STAR+PLUS in multiple counties across the state of Texas. For a full list of counties click here.

With a STAR+PLUS plan from UnitedHealthcare, Texans have access to a large network of doctors, including specialists, and a service coordinator who helps manage care and keeps patients on track for important appointments. Benefits with UnitedHealthcare also include no-cost prescription delivery and no-cost rides to doctor visits.

What are the key dates?

There is no deadline to join STAR+PLUS. Texans can submit your application anytime of the year by visiting YourTexasBenefits.com or by calling the Health and Human Services Commission at 800-964-2777.

Where is more information about the STAR+PLUS plan from UnitedHealthcare?

To learn more about the STAR+PLUS plan from UnitedHealthcare, call member services at 1-800-887-9003, TTY 7-1-1 or visit uhccp.com/tx.