If you’re on MyCare Ohio or caring for someone who is, you might have heard that the program’s name is changing to Next Generation MyCare in 2026. Understandably, a lot of people are wondering:
Does this mean my benefits will change?
Will I have to switch doctors?
Do I need to re-apply?
Let’s clear things up.
At FreedomCare, we know how overwhelming health coverage changes can feel. We’ve helped countless Ohio families navigate Medicaid and Medicare benefits, and we want you to feel confident about what’s ahead.
Key Takeaways
- The name is changing, but your care is not, for now. MyCare Ohio will continue operating as usual until January 2026.
- The transition to Next Generation MyCare aims to improve the program, not cut services.
- Four health plans will manage care under the new program: Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield, Buckeye Health Plan, CareSource, and Molina Healthcare of Ohio.
- New features will include better behavioral health support, more transportation options, expanded self-direction, and stronger long-term care services.
- FreedomCare will continue helping Ohioans get paid to care for their loved ones through Medicaid-funded programs offered under Next Gen.
Why the Name Change?
The Ohio Department of Medicaid (ODM) is rebranding MyCare Ohio as Next Generation MyCare to better reflect their mission: focusing on you, the individual, rather than just the business side of managed care.
The program is designed for people who qualify for both Medicaid and Medicare, also known as “dual eligible.” Right now, managing these two programs can be tricky. The goal of Next Generation MyCare is to make things easier by coordinating your care in one streamlined plan.
What Will Improve?
The Ohio Department of Medicaid (ODM) gathered feedback from members, caregivers, and healthcare providers to make sure the new program addresses real needs. Here are some of the improvements you can expect in 2026:
- Better behavioral health services, so mental and emotional well-being get the same attention as physical health
- More transportation options making it easier to get to appointments and community activities
- Greater opportunity for self-direction and more flexibility to choose the services and support that work best for you
- Stronger long-term care support for those who need help at home or in assisted living
- Personalized care planning care tailored to your unique health situation
Will You Need to Do Anything?
Not right now. If you’re a MyCare Ohio member, your providers and benefits will remain the same until the official transition in January 2026.
When the change happens, the four chosen plans – Anthem, Buckeye, CareSource, and Molina – will manage coverage for people eligible for both Medicare and Medicaid in the current 29 MyCare counties. After that, the program will expand statewide.
How FreedomCare Helps Ohio Families
If you or your loved one qualifies for MyCare Ohio (or will in the future under Next Generation MyCare) and needs daily assistance at home, you may be able to get paid to care for them through Medicaid-funded programs.
FreedomCare can help by:
- Checking eligibility quickly and for free
- Handling the paperwork so you don’t have to
- Matching you with the right program so you can get paid as a family caregiver
- Providing ongoing support as you care for your loved one
Our Ohio team works with families across the state, from urban centers to rural communities, to make sure no one has to choose between earning an income and caring for the people they love.
Frequently Asked Questions About Next Generation MyCare Ohio
What is Next Generation MyCare Ohio?
Next Generation MyCare Ohio is the updated version of the current MyCare Ohio program. It’s designed for people who qualify for both Medicaid and Medicare (dual eligible). Starting in January 2026, the program will include new features such as improved behavioral health services, more transportation options, greater flexibility for self-directed care, and stronger long-term care support — all while keeping your medical and home care benefits in one coordinated plan.
Is MyCare Ohio ending?
No. MyCare Ohio is not ending, but it is transitioning to Next Generation MyCare in January 2026. Until then, your benefits, providers, and coverage will remain the same.
Is Molina MyCare Ohio Dual a Medicare plan?
Yes. Molina MyCare Ohio Dual is a plan that combines Medicare and Medicaid benefits for eligible members. Under Next Generation MyCare, Molina will remain one of the four approved managed care organizations serving Ohioans who qualify for both programs.
Is Ohio ending Medicaid expansion?
No. Ohio is not ending Medicaid expansion. The changes to MyCare Ohio only affect the way benefits are coordinated for people who have both Medicaid and Medicare. If you’re currently on Medicaid through expansion, your coverage will continue as long as you remain eligible.
What’s Next
- Keep using your MyCare Ohio benefits as usual until January 2026.
- Watch for official communication from The Ohio Department of Medicaid (ODM) or your health plan about the transition.
- If you need help understanding how this change might affect you, FreedomCare is here to guide you.
Bottom line: The switch from MyCare Ohio to Next Generation MyCare is meant to improve your experience, not take anything away. And with FreedomCare, you can be confident you’ll have someone in your corner, helping you navigate benefits and even get paid to care for your loved one.
Check if you qualify to become a paid family caregiver in Ohio with FreedomCare today
Helpful Resources:
https://medicaid.ohio.gov/
https://medicaid.ohio.gov/families-and-individuals/citizen-programs-and-initiatives/mycareohio/mycare-ohio
https://freedomcare.com/how-to-get-paid-family-caregiver-ohio/
https://aging.ohio.gov/care-and-living/get-help/home-and-community-care/passport-1