COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) -- Ohio is seeking applications from managed care plans in its effort to better coordinate medical care for some of the state's sickest and most expensive patients.

The state released its request for applications on Tuesday. It reflects efforts by Gov. John Kasich's (KAY-sihks) administration to streamline the way health care is delivered to Ohioans enrolled in both Medicaid and Medicare.

The two programs operate fairly independently of each other.

The state has submitted a proposal to the federal government to better coordinate care for almost 115,000 of the so-called "dual eligible" individuals in seven urban regions. Federal officials have to sign off on the proposal and any contract the state enters into with the applicants.

Enrollment under the contracts is expected to begin Jan. 1.