Need Help with Healthcare Costs? Here’s What to Know About Medicaid in Kansas

Healthcare costs can be overwhelming, but programs like KanCare—Kansas’ Medicaid program—help make care more affordable for those who qualify. During the final Community Collaboration Series of 2025, guest speaker Kimberly Mies joined us at the Reno County Department of Aging to walk community members through the basics of KanCare eligibility and application.

What KanCare Is

KanCare is Kansas’ version of Medicaid. It’s a state and federally funded program that helps cover healthcare costs for people with low income or certain health needs. Because every state’s Medicaid program is different, anyone moving to Kansas must reapply here—even if they already had Medicaid elsewhere.

Who Can Get KanCare

KanCare is available for:

• Children under 19 (including foster children and aged-out foster youth)

• Pregnant women

• Parents and caregivers of children under 19

• Seniors (65+)

• People who are blind or disabled (or applying for disability)

• Nursing home residents and people using Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS)

Eligibility depends on income, household size, and, for some programs, resources such as savings or property.

Applying for KanCare

Applications can be submitted online at applyforkancare.ks.gov or on paper. To avoid delays:

• Sign and date the application (unsigned forms get returned)

• Include all household members

• Fax applications if possible — it’s the quickest way to get them processed

Key Programs You Should Know

• Caretaker Medical: For parents, grandparents, or other caregivers of children under 19.

• Title 19 & Title 21 (CHIP): Health coverage for kids, with CHIP covering slightly higher-income households. Some CHIP families pay a small household premium.

• Pregnant Women Coverage: Covers care during pregnancy and for 12 months after birth. Babies born to moms on Medicaid are automatically covered for their first year.

• Programs for Seniors & People with Disabilities: Includes medically needy “spenddown” programs, nursing home coverage, HCBS waivers, and Medicare Savings Programs that help pay Medicare premiums and copays.

Important Change for 2025

Starting July 1, 2025, late Medicaid renewals will no longer automatically reinstate coverage back to the end date. Late renewals will be treated like new applications, which could create a gap in coverage—so turn in renewals early!

Quick Tips for a Smooth Process

• Always sign your application

• Keep your contact information updated

• Ask for prior medical coverage if you need help with recent medical bills

• Call your KanCare MCO if you need a replacement card

📢 Need Help Applying? The Reno County Department of Aging can help you understand your options and guide you through the process.

📍 Location: 120 W. Avenue B, Hutchinson, KS

📞 Phone: 620-694-2911 🌐 Website: https://www.renocountyks.gov/Aging