South Country Health Alliance outlines 2025 supplemental benefits and $4.2M community reinvestment

Leona, speaking for South Country Health Alliance, presented program and benefit changes that staff said are intended to address health‑related social needs and improve access for rural members. Highlights included a new value‑based insurance design approved by CMS that enables supplemental benefits in two of three areas (food, transportation, living environment). Under the plan, senior care complete members will receive a grocery assistance card loaded with $130 per quarter and ability‑care members will receive $210 per quarter; cards do not carry over quarter to quarter.

Other expanded benefits include a $1,000 annual home‑safety modification benefit (grab bars, shower seats), continuation of home‑delivered meals (up to twice daily in qualifying circumstances), dental crowns, lens upgrades and access to personal emergency response systems. South Country also described an in‑lieu service tele‑doula platform for pregnant members and a 12‑month 'Right Bites for Life' program for prediabetes/diabetes that begins with prepared meals and moves toward meal kits and nutrition counseling.

Leona also summarized the recent round of community reinvestment grants: $4.2 million was made available; 35 applications requested about $7.9 million and 15 programs were funded for $2.16 million; county‑level reinvestment funds of $2.16 million will be allocated to county proposals. She said roughly $750,000 in grants will support organizations serving Waseca County residents. Commissioners thanked staff and noted the operational importance of local connectors and county case managers during the public‑health unwinding.

Ending: South Country will bring county proposals forward in December for board and staff review.