When choosing a health insurance provider—especially in the Medicaid, Medicare, or ACA Marketplace space—CareSource and Molina Healthcare are two names you’ll frequently encounter. Both companies focus heavily on serving low-income and underserved communities, offering affordable plans with added support and wellness services.
In this guide, we’ll compare CareSource vs Molina Healthcare in terms of coverage areas, plan options, affordability, member experience, and benefits, helping you determine which provider better fits your healthcare needs in 2025.
Company Overview
CareSource
Founded in 1989, CareSource is a nonprofit managed care company focused on Medicaid, Medicare Advantage, and Marketplace (ACA) plans. Based in Ohio, CareSource is known for its community-driven approach, offering plans in several Midwest and Southern states.
Key Highlights:
- Serves 2.3+ million members
- Strong Medicaid presence in OH, IN, KY, GA, WV, AR, ND
- Offers low-premium ACA plans and Medicare Advantage
- Focus on care coordination and social services
Molina Healthcare
Molina Healthcare is a Fortune 500 company that provides healthcare to low-income individuals through Medicaid, Medicare, and Marketplace plans. Founded in 1980, Molina serves over 5 million members in more than a dozen states.
Key Highlights:
- Operates in 19+ states, including TX, FL, CA, IL, MI, OH, WA
- Strong Medicaid and Medicare Advantage provider
- Competitive ACA plans with $0 premiums
- Known for local community partnerships and access to care
Coverage Area & Availability
| Feature | CareSource | Molina Healthcare |
| States Served (2025) | ~7 states (Midwest/South) | 19+ states (nationwide footprint) |
| ACA Marketplace Plans | Yes (e.g., OH, IN, KY, WV, GA) | Yes (many states including TX, FL, CA) |
| Medicaid | Yes (especially strong in OH, IN, KY) | Yes (broadest reach in multiple states) |
| Medicare Advantage | Yes (select markets) | Yes (nationwide availability) |
Verdict: Molina Healthcare has a broader national reach, while CareSource focuses more intensively on a regional footprint with deep local impact.
ACA (Marketplace) Plan Comparison
| Feature | CareSource ACA Plans | Molina ACA Plans |
| Monthly Premiums | $0 – $300 (after subsidies) | $0 – $280 (after subsidies) |
| Deductibles | $1,000 – $7,500 | $1,500 – $7,200 |
| Out-of-Pocket Max | $5,000 – $9,450 | $4,500 – $9,100 |
| Telehealth Access | 24/7 virtual care included | 24/7 virtual care included |
| Prescription Drug Coverage | Yes (tiered formulary) | Yes (tiered formulary) |
| Dental/Vision (Adults) | Optional add-ons | Available on some plans |
Verdict: Both insurers offer affordable ACA plans with similar structures. Molina may have slightly lower out-of-pocket costs in some regions, but CareSource offers strong care coordination and case management.
Medicare Advantage Comparison
| Feature | CareSource Medicare Advantage | Molina Medicare Advantage |
| Plan Types | HMO, D-SNP | HMO, PPO, D-SNP |
| Prescription Coverage (MAPD) | Included in most plans | Included in all plans |
| Dental, Vision, Hearing | Included (varies by plan) | Included with expanded dental in many areas |
| OTC Benefits | Yes (OTC cards and allowances) | Yes (OTC, groceries, Flex Cards in some) |
| CMS Star Ratings (2024) | 3.5 – 4.5 stars | 3.5 – 4.0 stars |
| Chronic Care Support | Strong in D-SNP plans | Offered through SNP and standard plans |
Verdict: CareSource Medicare plans excel in care management and coordination, while Molina’s plans offer broader dental benefits and wider availability.
Medicaid Services Comparison
| Feature | CareSource Medicaid | Molina Medicaid |
| Case Management | Intensive care coordination | Case management + behavioral health support |
| Transportation Services | Available in most states | Available in most states |
| Maternity Programs | Yes (e.g., Babies First, MyCare) | Yes (Maternal health & prenatal support) |
| Mental Health Services | Integrated behavioral health | Strong mental health network |
Verdict: Both providers deliver robust Medicaid services, with CareSource known for social support programs, and Molina for its holistic community care model.
Technology & Member Tools
| Feature | CareSource | Molina Healthcare |
| Mobile App | Yes, includes claims, ID card, benefits | Yes, includes appointment scheduling, benefits |
| Telehealth Integration | 24/7 virtual care platform | 24/7 through Teladoc or integrated system |
| Member Rewards/Wellness | Yes (Healthy Rewards, pregnancy rewards) | Yes (MyHealth Perks, wellness incentives) |
| Language & Accessibility | Multilingual resources | Multilingual + disability access support |
Verdict: Both companies have strong digital platforms, but Molina edges ahead with a more robust virtual care experience and wellness perks in many states.
Customer Satisfaction & Star Ratings
- CareSource generally receives high marks for customer service and case management, especially in its home states.
- Molina Healthcare has improved in recent years, especially in Medicare Advantage, but receives mixed reviews for claims and customer support in some regions.
Star Ratings (2024):
- CareSource: 3.5 – 4.5 stars
- Molina: 3.0 – 4.0 stars
Pros and Cons
CareSource
Pros:
- Strong Medicaid and ACA presence in Midwest/South
- Focused case management and social support
- Competitive Medicare Advantage offerings
- Localized member support
Cons:
- Limited to fewer states
- Fewer extra perks compared to larger insurers
Molina Healthcare
Pros:
- Available in 19+ states
- Affordable ACA plans with low premiums
- Competitive Medicare Advantage benefits
- Strong behavioral and mental health care support
Cons:
- Mixed customer service reviews
- Some plans have lower CMS Star Ratings
Which Should You Choose?
Choose CareSource if:
- You live in Ohio, Indiana, Kentucky, Georgia, or West Virginia
- You qualify for Medicaid or want a regional insurer with personalized case management
- You value community-based healthcare and member support
Choose Molina Healthcare if:
- You live in a state where Molina is active, such as California, Texas, Florida, or Illinois
- You’re looking for a low-cost ACA or Medicare plan with extra benefits
- You want broader plan choices and a growing national network
Both CareSource and Molina Healthcare offer reliable and affordable health insurance options for low- to moderate-income individuals and families. While CareSource wins on community engagement and intensive care coordination, Molina stands out for its national reach, extra benefits, and flexibility in Medicaid and ACA plans.
Before choosing a plan:
- Compare options on Healthcare.gov or Medicare.gov
- Look up provider networks and prescription formularies
- Check Star Ratings and reviews in your local area