Clinical Advisory Council (CAC)

The MO HealthNet Division (MHD) has established the Medicaid Clinical Advisory Council (CAC). The purpose of the CAC is to provide clinical expertise and guidance to MHD on matters related to MO HealthNet health and medical care services to ensure that these services meet the needs of MO HealthNet participants. The CAC may also advise MHD on broader Medicaid policy development and program administration, with the goal of improving outcomes for participants and creating a more sustainable Medicaid system. Additionally, the CAC shall promote member engagement with relevant stakeholders to socialize and champion MO HealthNet initiatives shaped by the CAC’s guidance. 

Membership

The CAC will be board-certified physicians and other representatives of the health professions who are familiar with the medical needs of low-income population groups, and with the resources available and required for their care. MHD will seek diverse clinical perspectives and ensure that the needs of rural providers are considered in council discussions. Preference will be given to clinicians serving in leadership positions (e.g., Chief Medical Officer). Members must disclose any potential or actual conflicts of interest. All member appointments must be confirmed by the MHD Director, and the MHD Director may also appoint additional individuals at their discretion. 

The following organizations will be responsible for nominating representatives:

  • Missouri State Medical Association
  • Missouri Primary Care Association
  • Missouri Behavioral Health Council
  • Missouri Hospital Association 
  • Missouri Association of Osteopathic Physicians & Surgeons
  • Missouri Health Plan Association 

If a vacancy on the council becomes available, the MHD Director will work with the associations listed above to solicit alternate nominations to complete the remainder of the membership term. Excluding travel, members will serve on the CAC without compensation.

For a list of members, visit Clinical Advisory Council (CAC) Members.

Core Functions 

The CAC is an advisory council that will provide clinical consultation, advice, and expertise to MHD. 

Areas where input may be sought include:

  • Reviewing trends in population health and program outcomes and identifying opportunities for improvement
  • Providing clinical input on proposed MHD programs and policies, including their potential impact on outcomes for MO HealthNet participants
  • Identifying potential clinical and operational barriers to implementing MHD initiatives and recommending approaches to support effective implementation
  • Assessing clinical implications of federal and state Medicaid policy changes and advise on implementing new requirements 
  • Advising on clinician engagement and communication strategies for proposed MHD initiatives, including anticipating provider responses and supporting provider awareness, participation, and adoption

Meetings

Monthly CAC meeting notices will be posted on the MHD Advisory Committees website at least 24 hours prior to the meeting. Members of the public will have an opportunity to provide comments at the end of each meeting. Individuals who wish to comment must notify the MHD Director in writing at least one business day before the meeting. 

MHD will publish the minutes and meeting materials on the MHD Advisory Committees website following the meeting.