South Country Health Alliance – The Complete Guide!
Healthcare choices can feel overwhelming, especially for families, seniors, and individuals needing government-supported programs. This is where South Country Health Alliance (SCHA) makes a difference. Established in 2001, SCHA is a non-profit, county-based health plan that brings quality healthcare closer to communities across Minnesota. Unlike large commercial insurers, SCHA is rooted in local governance, designed to serve people first, not profit margins.
This guide offers a comprehensive look at everything you need to know about South Country Health Alliance—from its programs and benefits to enrollment steps and member support.
What is South Country Health Alliance?
South Country Health Alliance, often called SCHA, is a joint powers organization made up of several Minnesota counties working together to purchase and manage healthcare for residents enrolled in state health care programs.
- Founded: November 2001
- Type: Non-profit, county-based purchasing health plan
- Purpose: Provide affordable, accessible, and coordinated healthcare to eligible Minnesota residents
- Core Values: Collaboration, stewardship, excellence, and open communication
Because SCHA is locally governed, decisions are made with community needs in mind. This ensures that resources are used efficiently, while members receive the care they deserve.
Service Area and Reach
South Country Health Alliance serves thousands of members across multiple Minnesota counties. The alliance began with a handful of counties and has grown significantly.
Counties Served by SCHA
- Brown
- Dodge
- Goodhue
- Kanabec
- Sibley
- Steele
- Wabasha
- Waseca
Over the years, enrollment has climbed, with membership surpassing 25,000 residents and continuing to grow.
| Category | Details |
| Type of Plan | County-based health plan |
| Start Year | 2001 |
| Counties Served | 8+ counties in Minnesota |
| Members | 25,000+ |
| Headquarters | Owatonna, Minnesota |
How South Country Health Alliance Operates
SCHA is governed by a Joint Powers Board, consisting of county commissioners and community leaders. This board ensures accountability, transparency, and local decision-making.
In addition, SCHA employs a leadership team made up of experts in health services, finance, operations, compliance, IT, and human resources. This collaborative structure allows SCHA to stay financially sustainable while providing comprehensive health coverage.
Programs and Plan Options
South Country Health Alliance offers a wide range of programs tailored to families, seniors, and individuals with special needs.
Medical Assistance Programs
- Families and Children (PMAP/MA): Provides coverage for low-income families and children.
- MinnesotaCare: A state-supported plan for working individuals who don’t qualify for Medical Assistance but need affordable coverage.
- Minnesota Senior Care Plus (MSC+): Helps seniors access healthcare, including long-term care services.
- SingleCare and SharedCare (SNBC Plans): Designed for people with disabilities, offering medical and behavioral health coverage.
Medicare Advantage Programs
- SeniorCare Complete: A fully integrated program combining Medicare and Medicaid benefits for seniors.
- AbilityCare: Tailored for individuals with disabilities, offering:
- $0 copays on prescription drugs
- Grocery assistance ($210 per quarter)
- Home-delivered meals after hospital stays
- Dental and vision coverage, including crowns and lens upgrades
- Gym membership discounts
- Emergency response systems
- $0 copays on prescription drugs
These programs ensure that members not only receive medical coverage but also enjoy added services that improve their quality of life.
Member Benefits and Services
South Country Health Alliance goes beyond basic insurance. Its member benefits are designed to make healthcare easier, more affordable, and more accessible.
Key Benefits Include:
- Preventive care and screenings
- Prescription drug coverage
- Behavioral health services
- Dental and vision care
- Transportation to medical appointments
- Home health and rehabilitation services
- Care coordination with local specialists
Members also benefit from Community Care Connectors, professionals who provide personal support in navigating healthcare services. This local touch ensures members don’t feel lost in the system.
Innovation and Community Impact
One of the standout features of South Country Health Alliance is its commitment to innovation. Through programs like DiamondView Health Information Exchange, SCHA ensures that healthcare providers, social workers, and counties can share vital information securely. This reduces gaps in care, improves coordination, and helps members receive the right treatment at the right time.
SCHA also supports local communities with grants and health initiatives, such as expanding telehealth access and supporting maternal care services.
Awards and Recognition
SCHA has been recognized for excellence in quality and its ability to provide innovative healthcare solutions. Its dedication to care coordination and community-centered programs continues to earn praise both locally and statewide.
How to Enroll in South Country Health Alliance
Enrolling in SCHA depends on eligibility and the program you qualify for:
- Medical Assistance / MinnesotaCare: Apply through MNsure or your county’s Human Services office.
- Medicare Advantage Plans: Enroll during open enrollment or when you become eligible for Medicare.
- Automatic Enrollment: Some individuals may be auto-assigned to SCHA if they live in a service county.
Member Services Contact:
- Phone: 1-866-567-7242
- TTY: 1-800-627-3529 or 711
- Hours: 8 a.m.–5 p.m., Monday–Friday
Member Experiences and Testimonials
Many members highlight the convenience and personalized support they receive from South Country Health Alliance. Stories often mention:
- Reliable ride scheduling for medical appointments
- Friendly and supportive customer service
- Clear explanations of benefits
- Peace of mind knowing both health and daily needs (like groceries) are supported
These real experiences build trust and show why many people choose to stay with SCHA long-term.
How South Country Health Alliance Stands Out
Compared to large commercial insurers, South Country Health Alliance offers a community-first model. Its strengths include:
- Local governance through county partnerships
- Focus on members, not profits
- Personalized care coordination
- Added benefits like grocery assistance, dental crowns, and transportation
- Innovation in health information sharing
This makes SCHA a trusted, people-centered health plan.
FAQs About South Country Health Alliance
Can I use South Country Health Alliance if I move outside the covered counties?
No, eligibility is limited to residents living within SCHA’s participating counties. Moving outside the area may require switching to another health plan.
Does SCHA cover emergency care outside Minnesota?
Yes, emergency care is covered even if you are traveling outside Minnesota. However, routine care must be accessed within the service network.
Are there extra costs for transportation services?
No, transportation to covered medical appointments is included as part of your benefits at no additional cost.
How does SCHA support members with chronic conditions?
Members with ongoing conditions receive care coordination, personalized health plans, and help scheduling specialist visits to manage their health effectively.
Can small businesses or employers offer SCHA to employees?
No, SCHA is not a commercial group plan. It is strictly for eligible individuals through state health programs like Medical Assistance, MinnesotaCare, and Medicare Advantage.
Does South Country Health Alliance offer dental implants or advanced dental procedures?
SCHA covers many standard dental services, such as exams, cleanings, fillings, and crowns (depending on your plan). However, advanced procedures like dental implants may not be included. Members should check their plan’s dental benefit summary or call Member Services for details.
Can I switch from another health plan to South Country Health Alliance?
Yes, if you are eligible and live in a participating county, you can switch during open enrollment or special enrollment periods. County human services offices can help guide you through the transition.
Does South Country Health Alliance cover mental health therapy and counseling?
Yes. SCHA includes behavioral and mental health services such as therapy, counseling, psychiatric visits, and in some cases, substance use treatment. Coverage levels may vary by program.
Are prescription drug delivery services available through SCHA?
Many SCHA plans include access to mail-order pharmacies, which allow members to receive prescription drugs delivered directly to their homes for added convenience.
How does South Country Health Alliance ensure quality in its provider network?
SCHA partners only with providers and clinics that meet Minnesota’s quality and safety standards. The alliance also evaluates providers regularly to ensure members receive high-quality, coordinated, and cost-effective care.
Conclusion
South Country Health Alliance is more than a health insurance option—it’s a lifeline for thousands of Minnesotans. By combining local governance, comprehensive coverage, and innovative community programs, SCHA ensures that members receive affordable and personalized healthcare. From seniors needing integrated care to families seeking reliable coverage, SCHA stands out as a trusted, community-first health plan.
If you live in one of the service counties and qualify for state health programs, exploring South Country Health Alliance could be one of the best steps toward securing your health and peace of mind.
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