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Employee Spotlight – Jim Messer

Jim stands against a block wall for a picture.
Jim Messer is a Talent Specialist working in the Schoolcraft County UP Michigan Works! office

Get to know a little bit about one of our specialists, Jim, by reading his short biography below.

A 26-year veteran of the U.S. Air Force, Jim holds a B.S. in Business Administration from CSU, three associate degrees from the Community College of the Air Force in Human Resources, Education and Training Management, and Construction Technology. 

As a 5th generation “Yooper,” you can say he has a great appreciation for Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. He has a strong desire to help the people in his community align their knowledge, skills, and abilities with potential employers. 

Jim enjoys hunting, fishing, snowshoeing, or anything that is outdoors.  He is married to his best friend Nikole and they have three adult children.

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Get to know Jim, and other UP Michigan Works! employees, by calling us at 1-800-285-WORK (9675).

Medicaid in the Upper Peninsula

Navigating health coverage and work requirements can be confusing, so here’s a simple guide on how the program works and who fills what role:

Medicaid is a health care program funded by the state and federal government that provides health care services to eligible, low-income Michigan citizens, including adults, children, the elderly, pregnant woman, and some people with disabilities.

  • Upper Peninsula Health Plan (UPHP) is a managed care organization licensed by the State of Michigan to provide Medicaid medical services. UPHP helps eligible members access healthcare services, providers, care management, and member support after they are enrolled in Medicaid. They are the only organization of this kind in the Upper Peninsula. 
  • Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) administers Medicaid in Michigan, determines eligibility, manages enrollment through MI Bridges, and oversees Healthy Michigan Plan work requirement policies and exemptions.
  • Upper Peninsula Michigan Works! (UPMW) helps individuals connect with employment, education, training, and career services that may help them meet Healthy Michigan Plan work requirement activities and achieve their employment goals.

To learn more about Medicaid in the U.P, visit UPHP.com.