MedicaidAdministrativeMedium impact
[Ohio] Service initiation referrals are coming to the Referral Dashboard in Care Central
Anthem BCBS·OH · Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, Speech Therapy +2 more·Provider Bulletin
Effective date
Sep 1, 2026
We identified it
Sep 2, 2026
Summary
Beginning September 1, 2026, MyCare Ohio waiver service initiation referrals will be available through the Referral Dashboard in Care Central (Availity Essentials application). HCBS waiver providers must use this centralized platform to view, manage, and respond to referrals for members seeking to start waiver services or select a new provider. Home modification referrals remain managed separately and are not included in this dashboard.
Action Required
By September 1, 2026: (1) All HCBS waiver providers in Ohio must register for Care Central access through Availity Essentials if not already registered. (2) Billing and referral management staff should attend one of the three mandatory training sessions (Sept 1, Sept 9, or Sept 17, 2026) to learn the Referral Dashboard navigation. (3) Review and update provider information in the Find Care provider directory to ensure accurate service listings and locations to receive appropriate referrals. (4) Implement a process to monitor the Referral Dashboard regularly and respond to referrals promptly. (5) Establish internal workflow to distinguish between new waiver service initiation referrals (managed via dashboard) and member transitions between programs/payers (handled separately). Failure to respond to referrals may delay member access to services and impact provider selection outcomes.