South Country Health Alliance – Your Guide to Affordable, Local Health Coverage!

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South Country Health Alliance

South Country Health Alliance (SCHA) is a county-based, nonprofit health plan designed to provide affordable and accessible healthcare to individuals and families across southern Minnesota. With a strong commitment to community health and personalized service, SCHA works directly with county governments and local providers to deliver high-quality healthcare to eligible members.

If you’re exploring your healthcare options in Minnesota, this guide will help you understand what SCHA is, who it serves, what benefits it offers, and how you can enroll.

📌 What Is South Country Health Alliance?

South Country Health Alliance is a collaborative health plan created by multiple counties in Minnesota to serve residents who are eligible for state public health programs. Instead of large, profit-driven insurance companies, SCHA is county-owned and operated, meaning it prioritizes people over profits.

SCHA operates as part of Minnesota Health Care Programs (MHCP), and it administers services for:

  • Medical Assistance (MA)
  • MinnesotaCare
  • Minnesota Senior Health Options (MSHO)
  • Minnesota Senior Care Plus (MSC+)
  • Special Needs BasicCare (SNBC)

By coordinating care with local healthcare providers, social services, and community programs, SCHA ensures members receive holistic, culturally sensitive, and person-centered care.

🌍 Which Counties Participate in South Country Health Alliance?

🌍 Which Counties Participate in South Country Health Alliance?
Source: topworkplaces

SCHA currently serves members in the following 11 counties:

  • Dodge
  • Goodhue
  • Kanabec
  • Morrison
  • Sibley
  • Steele
  • Todd
  • Wabasha
  • Wadena
  • Waseca
  • Chisago (coverage may vary)

If you live in one of these counties and qualify for a Minnesota Health Care Program, you may be automatically enrolled in SCHA.

💼 South Country Health Alliance Health Plans

SCHA offers several types of health plans designed to meet the needs of different populations. Here’s a detailed overview:

1. Families and Children (Medical Assistance)

Ideal for low-income families, pregnant women, and children. Offers comprehensive healthcare including doctor visits, hospital care, immunizations, and prescriptions.

2. SingleCare

For adults aged 18–64 without dependent children, who qualify for Medical Assistance. Includes coverage for preventive care, emergency services, and more.

3. SharedCare (SNBC)

For individuals aged 18–64 with disabilities. Offers basic care services with the flexibility of choosing providers and managing care independently.

4. AbilityCare

A more coordinated version of SNBC that includes care coordination and extra support for members managing chronic conditions or disabilities.

5. SeniorCare Complete (MSHO)

For people 65+ who are eligible for both Medicare and Medical Assistance. Combines both programs into one plan with additional perks like vision, dental, and care coordination.

6. MinnesotaCare

For working individuals and families who don’t qualify for MA but still need affordable coverage. This plan includes a low monthly premium and broad service coverage.

⭐ Key Benefits of South Country Health Alliance

What sets SCHA apart from other health plans is its community-first approach and wide range of benefits. Depending on your plan, you may receive:

  • Preventive care services (checkups, screenings, vaccines)
  • Prescription drug coverage
  • Vision and dental benefits
  • Behavioral health and substance use treatment
  • Hospital, urgent, and emergency care
  • Long-term care services and supports
  • Maternity and newborn care
  • Transportation to medical appointments
  • 24/7 nurse advice line
  • Care coordination and case management
  • Home health services

They also offer language interpreter services, cultural outreach, and specialized programs for seniors and people with disabilities.

📝 How to Enroll in South Country Health Alliance

📝 How to Enroll in South Country Health Alliance
Source: topworkplaces

You cannot enroll directly through SCHA. Instead, you must apply through Minnesota Health Care Programs (MHCP). If you’re eligible and live in a participating county, you will be automatically assigned to SCHA.

Here’s how to apply:

🖥️ Online

  • Visit MNsure.org to complete your application.

📞 By Phone

  • Call your local county human services office to apply or ask questions.

👥 In Person

  • Meet with a certified navigator or county caseworker for free help applying.

Once your eligibility is approved, you’ll receive enrollment details and a member ID card from South Country Health Alliance.

📲 Member Resources and Support

As a member of SCHA, you get access to a range of support tools and resources, including:

  • Online member portal to view your benefits, update info, and find providers
  • Find-a-Doctor tool to search for primary care providers and specialists
  • Care coordinators who help you manage chronic conditions, medications, and appointments
  • Transportation services for non-emergency medical visits
  • Health education materials, classes, and wellness programs

For assistance, contact SCHA at:

  • Phone: 1-866-567-7242
  • TTY: 1-800-627-3529
  • Website: www.mnscha.org
  • Hours: Monday–Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

💬 Why Choose South Country Health Alliance?

Here’s what makes SCHA stand out in the world of public health plans:

  • ✅ Locally managed by your county
  • ✅ Strong relationships with community providers
  • ✅ Culturally competent and inclusive care
  • ✅ One-on-one care coordination
  • ✅ Focused on improving health outcomes, not profits

Whether you’re a senior, someone with a disability, or a parent seeking care for your child, SCHA provides a personalized health care experience backed by local knowledge and support.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Is South Country Health Alliance insurance?

Yes. SCHA is a nonprofit health insurance plan for eligible Minnesota residents enrolled in Medical Assistance, MinnesotaCare, or other state programs.

Q2. Who is eligible for South Country Health Alliance?

Anyone living in a participating county and enrolled in a qualifying MHCP like Medical Assistance or MinnesotaCare.

Q3. Can I choose South Country Health Alliance?

If you’re eligible and live in a participating county, you may be automatically assigned to SCHA. In some cases, you can choose it as your plan during enrollment.

Q4. Does SCHA cover dental and vision?

Yes, many SCHA plans include comprehensive dental and vision coverage.

Q5. How do I contact South Country Health Alliance?

Call 1-866-567-7242 or visit mnscha.org for more information.

Final Thoughts: A Community-Focused Plan That Puts Your Health First

South Country Health Alliance offers a trusted and affordable health coverage option for Minnesotans in participating counties. With a unique emphasis on local partnerships, personalized care, and public health, SCHA ensures its members get the support they need to lead healthier, fuller lives. Whether you’re new to Minnesota Health Care Programs or looking to understand your current benefits better, South Country Health Alliance is a name you can rely on.

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