CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE EARNINGS - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net earnings	$ 1,336	$ 1,794	$ 1,309
Reclassification adjustment, net of tax	(20)	(3)	(5)
Change in unrealized gain (loss) on investments, net of tax	(221)	191	203
Defined benefit pension plan net gain (loss), net of tax	2	0	(6)
Foreign currency translation adjustments	(21)	15	(2)
Other comprehensive earnings (loss)	(260)	203	190
Comprehensive earnings	1,076	1,997	1,499
Comprehensive loss attributable to noncontrolling interests	11	14	12
Comprehensive earnings attributable to Centene Corporation	$ 1,087	$ 2,011	$ 1,511