State Medicaid programs are increasingly exploring ways to provide long-term services and supports (LTSS) through capitated managed care plans rather than traditional fee-for-service delivery systems. These managed long-term services and supports (MLTSS) programs are also an important component of several states’ demonstration programs to integrate care for individuals dually enrolled in Medicare and Medicaid.

Because MLTSS programs provide services to Medicaid’s most complex populations, namely seniors and people with disabilities with complex medical, behavioral, and LTSS needs, their success depends on engaging stakeholders. A comprehensive communications work plan, written by state staff in the agencies serving the target group of beneficiaries, can help ensure that MLTSS programs meet the diverse needs of beneficiaries. This communications work plan provides states with practical strategies to facilitate stakeholder engagement throughout the design and implementation of a Medicaid MLTSS program.