Cityblock Health and Meridian Health Plan of Illinois have announced a partnership to expand coverage across 17 counties in the Springfield and St. Louis Metro East areas. The collaboration aims to bring community-based care to approximately 10,000 Medicaid beneficiaries. This agreement connects Meridian’s managed care network with Cityblock’s existing services, including in-home urgent care and virtual care options.
The deal will combine Meridian’s provider network with Cityblock’s suite of offerings, which includes primary care, behavioral health, social support, clinical pharmacy, and care management. Both organizations focus on medical and mental health needs, though they operate through different infrastructures. Meridian is a managed care organization that operates under Centene, which is the largest managed Medicaid Managed Care Organization in the country. Cityblock, which has been operating in Illinois since 2024, has an estimated 15 locations in 10 states and the District of Columbia.
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This marks the fourth partnership between Cityblock and a Centene regional plan, following agreements in New York, Ohio, and Florida. The companies emphasize that this model addresses the complex needs of Medicaid populations, which often face higher risks for poor health outcomes. With nearly one in four Illinois residents enrolled in Medicaid, the scale of this partnership is significant for the state’s healthcare setting.
Meridian is excited to add Cityblock to our expanding value-based care provider network. Their integrated and innovative model is among the few designed to address the complex needs of Medicaid populations – often at higher risk for poor health outcomes,” said Cristal Gary, Meridian Plan president and CEO.
“Meridian is an innovative managed care plan with a longstanding history in Illinois, and we’re honored to collaborate with their existing provider network to drive better outcomes and sustainable value for members and providers alike,” said Mike Roaldi, Cityblock Health president. “With nearly one in four Illinois residents enrolled in Medicaid, there is a clear need to scale access to quality care for this complex population.”
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Addressing gaps in rural care
The partnership spans both urban and rural communities, aiming to bridge gaps in service delivery. While Cityblock’s model includes digital tools like telehealth and in-home visits, integrating these with a regional managed care network presents logistical challenges. The success of this collaboration will likely depend on how effectively the two organizations align their operational standards without disrupting the continuity of care for beneficiaries.
Cityblock said this is its fourth partnership with a Centene regional plan and the first in Illinois. The companies also partner in New York, Ohio and Florida. Cityblock has an estimated 15 locations in 10 states and the District of Columbia. It has been operating in Illinois since 2024. More than 3 million Illinois residents are enrolled in Medicaid and CHIP.