LENEXA, Kan., Nov. 5, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Sunflower State Health Plan, Inc. (Sunflower Health Plan), a wholly owned subsidiary of Centene Corporation, announced today it has earned 4 out of 5 stars in NCQA's Medicaid Health Plan Ratings 2026.

The 2026 rating represents an increase from Sunflower's 2025 rating of 3.5 out of 5 stars, reflecting continued progress in quality performance and member experience.

The National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) Health Plan Ratings evaluate health plans on clinical quality, member experience and health outcomes using nationally recognized measures, including HEDIS® and CAHPS® data.

"At Sunflower, every quality measure represents a real person, family or community we serve," said Michael Stephens, Sunflower Health Plan President and CEO. "This recognition reflects the dedication of our employees, providers and community partners who work every day to improve access to care, close health gaps and help our members live healthier lives."

The rating builds upon Sunflower's longstanding commitment to quality and NCQA-recognized performance. Sunflower has maintained NCQA Health Plan Accreditation since 2014, earned NCQA Long-Term Services and Supports (LTSS) Distinction in 2020 and achieved NCQA Health Outcomes Accreditation in 2023.

Sunflower's quality improvement efforts have focused on advancing preventive care, strengthening behavioral health support, improving care coordination and addressing barriers that can affect health outcomes. The NCQA report card highlights performance across a broad range of measures, including cancer screenings, immunizations, diabetes management, mental-health follow-ups and member access to care and health plan services.

"This achievement belongs to our entire organization and the providers and partners who share our commitment to improving health across Kansas," Stephens said. "Together, we are helping ensure members receive the right care at the right time and experience the support they need to achieve their best health."

The National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) is a private, nonprofit organization dedicated to improving healthcare quality. NCQA Accredits and Certifies a wide range of healthcare organizations and recognizes clinicians in key clinical areas. NCQA's HEDIS® is the most widely used performance measurement tool in healthcare. NCQA's website (ncqa.org) contains information to help consumers, employers and others make informed healthcare choices.

About Sunflower Health Plan
Sunflower Health Plan, a subsidiary of Centene Corporation, is a managed care organization established to deliver quality healthcare in the state of Kansas through local, regional and community-based resources. Sunflower is committed to improving the health of its beneficiaries through focused, compassionate and coordinated care in an approach based on the core belief that quality healthcare is best delivered locally. For more information, please visit www.sunflowerhealthplan.com.

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SOURCE Sunflower Health Plan