Behind the Scenes: How Centene’s Workplace Accommodations Team Supports Accessibility

This National Disability Employment Awareness Month, we’re highlighting how Centene empowers every team member through accessibility and support. Accessibility is part of our culture — it ensures employees can do their best work and strengthens the communities we serve. That commitment begins with the first interaction, empowering candidates to request an accommodation during the hiring process and continues throughout their Centene career.

“Some of our most impactful team members bring unique ways of working,” says Heather S., Senior Manager, Workplace Accommodations. “Accessibility is about creating an environment where everyone can contribute fully and have what they need to succeed.”

Technology That Empowers People

One way that Centene supports . These tools help employees work efficiently — whether through speech-to-text, screen readers, or real-time transcription.

“Having the technology is one thing,” said Kevin S., Senior Workplace Accommodations Partner. “But making sure it works seamlessly with our systems and that employees have dedicated support is huge. That’s where we’ve really made a difference.”

To do this, the Workplace Accommodations team and the teammates hiring manager or leader to ensure each solution is practical, secure, and tailored to the employee. Think of it as what Kevin calls the “Venn diagram of accessibility,” where technology and support intersect.

Beyond Technology: Support That Adapts

Accessibility at Centene goes far beyond technology. The Workplace Accommodations team partners with employees and leaders to find the right mix of tools, resources, and adjustments to help each person thrive — whether that means ergonomic equipment, workspace modifications, flexible scheduling, or alternative communication methods.

This collaborative approach ensures solutions are practical, tailored, and fully supported by the employees’ team.

One Size Doesn’t Fit All

No two people experience disability in the same way, and Centene’s approach reflects that. From ergonomic equipment and modified work setups to flexible schedules and personalized checklists, accommodations are created through one-on-one conversations with each employee.

“Our program isn’t prescriptive,” explains Kevin. “Two people in the same role may need entirely different solutions. We listen, understand, and build the right support around them.”

Accessibility Strengthens Our Mission

Supporting employees also supports the members we serve.

“If I support a team member, that’s then delivered to our members in the community,” Heather notes. “When we remove barriers for employees, they’re able to deliver compassionate, effective care."

In healthcare, that impact is especially meaningful. A member calling in is speaking to someone who’s supported to make a difference.

Building Trust Through Action

Requesting an accommodation can feel like a big step. That’s why the Workplace Accommodations team centers everything they do on trust and care.

“When we approve an accommodation, I can’t wait to get back in touch with that person,” Heather notes. “Knowing we’ve provided what they need to do their job — that’s the foundation of our culture. They trusted Centene to have a plan and an option for them.”