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Current Situation:
Right now, more than 260,000 Kansans don't have enough health insurance. Expanding Medicaid in Kansas could help around 150,000 more people get coverage. The federal government would cover 90% of the costs, bringing in millions of dollars to Kansas. However, Kansas is one of only 10 states that haven't expanded Medicaid, missing out on more than 7 billion of dollars already.
Governor Laura Kelly wants to expand the Medicaid program, known as KanCare, to help more Kansans get healthcare. This will not only provide better care but also boost the state's economy. Healthcare providers, especially in rural areas, support this expansion.
Important Points:
• Around 151,898 Kansans, including adults and children, could get coverage if Medicaid is expanded in January 2025.
• Governor Laura Kelly's plan includes a work requirement, but many eligible Kansans are already working or have valid exemptions. Those exempted would include caregivers, veterans, people with partial disabilities and former foster kids.
• Expanding Medicaid could save Kansas around $509 million over two years, helping to cover costs and provide care for more people.
• Healthcare providers, especially those in rural areas where hospitals are closing, support Medicaid expansion.
You can learn more about this issue by reading the Kansas Health Institute's Issue Brief. LINK TO KHI
What you can do: Contact Your State Legislator and Legislative Leadership
We urge you to join us in asking Kansas lawmakers to expand access to KanCare this week. Let them know that this will improve healthcare access for more Kansans, including caregivers. Contact your legislators to voice your support by going to this LINK.
Thank you for standing with us to advocate for expanded health care access for Kansans. If you have questions or need more information, contact Laura Loyacono, KCSC Contract Policy Director, at laura@kcshepherdscenter.org.
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