Molina Healthcare Took Over Florida Children's Health Plan
Thousands of Florida families will see a new operator for the Children’s Medical Services Health Plan.
Updated on Oct. 2, 2026 in Children’s Health
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Molina Healthcare has assumed operation of the Children's Medical Services Health Plan in Florida, replacing Sunshine Health as the plan administrator. The change impacts thousands of children across the state who rely on the program for medical coverage.
Why it matters
This administrative transition shifts the management of pediatric care services for thousands of Florida families. Understanding this change is essential for ensuring uninterrupted access to medical providers and ongoing care plans during the transition period.
Official program documentation confirms the transition of the Children's Medical Services Health Plan management from Sunshine Health to Molina Healthcare. While the continuity period is established through May 30, 2027, the long-term impact on provider networks remains under review.
The players
Molina Healthcare
A managed care organization that provides government-sponsored health insurance programs including Medicaid and CHIP.
Sunshine Health
A managed care plan that previously operated the Children's Medical Services Health Plan.
The details
The shift entails a change in the administrative management of health benefits for pediatric populations covered by the plan. Families and providers have been notified via letter of the switch, which maintains coverage for existing prior authorizations, appointments, and procedures during the current Continuity of Care period.
Timeline
October 1, 2026: Molina Healthcare began operating the plan.
May 30, 2027: The Continuity of Care period for current providers concludes.
Health Landscape
This transition aligns with the operational shifts common within the Statewide Medicaid Managed Care program. It reflects a standard, periodic adjustment of administrative partners tasked with delivering specialized pediatric medical coverage in Florida.
Families should confirm service status directly with their current healthcare providers to avoid disruptions. If you encounter issues with provider access or coverage, you should escalate those concerns to a Molina Healthcare case manager.
The takeaway
The administrative change does not interrupt currently authorized care, with protections in place through May 30, 2027. For assistance or questions regarding coverage, you may contact the Statewide Medicaid Managed Care help line at 1-877-711-3662.
Further reading
Learn more about navigating pediatric coverage in Florida Children’s Health.
Source note: This article includes information reported by WESH.
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