MedicaidAdministrativeHigh impact
Introduction to BadgerCare Plus — Wisconsin's New Health Care Program
Wisconsin Medicaid (ForwardHealth)·WI·Medical Policy
Effective date
Feb 1, 2008
We identified it
Jun 20, 2026
Summary
BadgerCare Plus launches February 1, 2008, merging Wisconsin Medicaid, BadgerCare, and Healthy Start into a single program with two benefit plans. The Standard Plan maintains current Medicaid coverage while the new Benchmark Plan offers limited commercial-style benefits for higher-income families.
Action Required
By February 1, 2008: Billing team must update systems to recognize BadgerCare Plus as single program replacing separate Wisconsin Medicaid, BadgerCare, and Healthy Start billing. Update patient eligibility verification processes to identify Standard Plan vs Benchmark Plan coverage. Train staff on new copayment rules - Standard Plan members with incomes above 100% FPL now subject to copays, and Benchmark Plan allows service denial for non-payment of higher copayments. Update billing software to reflect consolidated coverage groups and new member terminology.