Learn what the CMS Plan transition to Molina Healthcare means for Florida families and how Atlantic Care Services is supporting continuity of care.
As of October 1, 2026, Molina Healthcare of Florida has taken over administration of Florida’s Children’s Medical Services (CMS) Plan. For families who rely on the CMS Plan to access medical care for children with complex healthcare needs, it’s important to understand what has changed and what remains the same.
The good news is that the CMS Plan transition to Molina Healthcare does not change covered benefits and services during the transition, according to Florida’s Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA).
Atlantic Care Services is also contracted and in-network with Molina Healthcare, allowing our team to continue supporting families enrolled in the CMS Plan.
What Changed With the CMS Plan on October 1, 2026?
The Children’s Medical Services Plan provides healthcare coverage for eligible children and young adults with special healthcare needs.
Sunshine Health previously administered the CMS Plan, but it transitioned to Molina Healthcare of Florida on October 1, 2026, as part of Florida’s statewide Medicaid managed care program.
The change affects which health plan administers CMS coverage, but it does not mean families must start over with their child’s care.
According to AHCA, existing CMS Plan members were automatically transitioned to Molina Healthcare without needing to submit a new application.
Will CMS Benefits and Services Change Under Molina Healthcare?
One of the biggest concerns families may have about the CMS-Molina transition is whether their child’s existing healthcare services will be affected.
The Florida Agency for Health Care Administration has provided several important assurances to help families understand what to expect:
- Covered benefits and services: Existing CMS Plan benefits and covered services remain the same during the transition.
- Scheduled appointments: We will honor previously scheduled appointments.
- Prescriptions: We will continue to honor existing prescriptions.
- Prior authorizations: Molina will honor existing prior authorizations to help maintain continuity of care.
- Enrollment: Current CMS Plan members were automatically transitioned to Molina without submitting a new application.
Families should continue following their child’s established care plan and communicate with their healthcare providers about any questions or changes.
Can Families Continue Receiving Care From Atlantic Care Services?
Yes. Atlantic Care Services is contracted and in-network with Molina Healthcare of Florida.
Our team has been actively preparing for the CMS Plan transition and working with Molina and the appropriate state representatives to help minimize disruptions for the children and families we serve.
Atlantic Care Services remains available as an in-network provider for families transitioning to the Molina CMS Plan.
Because each child’s medical needs and coverage arrangements differ, families with questions about specific services, authorizations, or care arrangements should contact our team for assistance.
Our priority is to help families navigate the transition while supporting continuity of care at home.
What Should Families and Caregivers Do After the CMS Molina Transition?
Although CMS Plan members transitioned automatically, families and caregivers can take a few practical steps to stay informed.
For Families
Review any letters, insurance information, or notices received from Molina Healthcare. Keep updated insurance cards and plan information accessible, and contact your healthcare provider with any questions about your child’s care.
For Caregivers
Caregivers working with Atlantic Care Services should continue providing care and follow established procedures unless our team provides specific instructions.
Atlantic Care Services will communicate directly with caregivers if we need updates or additional actions.
For Case Managers
Case managers coordinating care for children transitioning to Molina can contact Atlantic Care Services with questions about our in-network status or ongoing care coordination.
Our team is available to help with questions about the transition and the services we provide.
Frequently Asked Questions About the CMS Plan Transition to Molina Healthcare
Do families need to reapply for the CMS Plan?
No. AHCA confirmed that existing CMS Plan members were automatically transitioned to Molina Healthcare on October 1, 2026. A new application was not required.
Will my child’s existing care authorizations still be valid?
According to AHCA, Molina Healthcare will honor existing prior authorizations during the transition. Families with questions about individual authorizations should contact Molina or their healthcare provider.
Who should families contact with questions about Molina CMS coverage?
Families can contact Molina CMS Plan Member Services at (800) 262-0750 (TTY: 711), Monday through Friday, from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM local time.
For questions about care provided by Atlantic Care Services, families can also contact our team.
Atlantic Care Services Is Here to Support Your Family
Changes to healthcare coverage can feel overwhelming, especially when your child depends on consistent medical care.
Atlantic Care Services is committed to helping families navigate the CMS Plan transition to Molina Healthcare and supporting continuity of care for children with complex medical needs.
Have questions about your child’s private duty nursing services under Molina? Contact Atlantic Care Services to learn more about your family’s care options.