When it comes to consumer satisfaction among Georgia's managed Medicaid members, WellCare of Georgia, a subsidiary of WellCare Health Plans, Inc. is the top-rated, according to the National Committee for Quality Assurance's 2017 – 2018 Medicaid Health Insurance Plan Ratings.

NCQA reported WellCare of Georgia was rated 4 out of 5 for consumer satisfaction and 3.5 out of 5 overall in NCQA's Medicaid Health Insurance Plan Ratings 2017–2018, making WellCare the state's top-rated managed care organization for member satisfaction.

These quality measures are especially important to help improve health outcomes. Research indicates patients who are satisfied with their physician relationship tend to utilize more preventive care services and screenings. 

"Member satisfaction among the Medicaid population is crucial because patients are more likely to manage chronic health conditions and reduce unhealthy behaviors when they have positive relationships with their physicians," said Sonya Nelson, president, WellCare of Georgia. "Because our primary care physicians have done an exceptional job in building patient relationships and offering helpful, manageable ways for members to improve their health, we're seeing improvements in health outcomes."

An August 2016 report from Health Affairs noted that among lower-income patients, trust and respect were their primary concern in the healthcare system. Many reported the issue they were most passionate about was distrust of healthcare workers and a sense that they were seen as "less-than" by medical providers.

WellCare employs more than 80 field-based care associates serving 159 counties across the state who help members manage their health conditions and can provide in-home visits or help members overcome social or economic barriers to care by connecting members to needed social services such as food, transportation or housing.

"Our care management and advocacy teams are making vital improvements in our members' lives. Many families struggle with social or economic barriers to care that put them at a disadvantage when it comes to living a healthy life. By helping families navigate these challenges, WellCare removes major roadblocks to better health. We look forward to continuing to help our members in Georgia live better, healthier lives," said Nelson.