Announcing Meridian Medicare-Medicaid plan changes effective January 1, 2026

Date: 11/24/25

On January 1, 2026, the state of Illinois is transitioning Medicare-Medicaid plans to exclusively aligned Dual-Eligible Special Needs Plans (D-SNPs). Therefore, the Meridian Medicare-Medicaid Plan (MMP) will change to a D-SNP named Wellcare Meridian Dual Align (HMO D-SNP), or simply, Wellcare By Meridian. The new plan coordinates care for those with both Medicare and Medicaid under one parent company.

No action is needed by members already enrolled in Meridian MMP. Members will receive a new ID card in the mail. 

For more information:

• Members can learn specific details on the transition on our MMP website.
• Providers can visit the provider section of our new Wellcare By Meridian website for details.
• Medicare providers can read more on the transition on the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services (HFS) website.