Seven groups representing all five regions of the state have filed an official Notice of Intent with the Alabama Medicaid Agency to apply for probationary certification as a Regional Care Organization. The NOI is the first step in the application process.

“I am very pleased that we have received notices of intent from organizations that have announced their intentions to operate a Regional Care Organization in all five regions of the state,” said State Health Officer Dr. Don Williamson, who is also chair of the Medicaid Transition Task Force.

The application period opened in May when the state adopted rules outlining the application process and other requirements. Potential RCOs have until August 1, 2014, to submit their applications. State legislation passed in 2013 requires Medicaid to certify probationary RCOs by October 1, 2014, although there is a provision for additional time in the case of demonstrated need.