Top 5 Medicaid Questions Answered — What Kansas Residents Need to Know
Medicaid can be confusing—especially when you’re trying to navigate a state-specific program like KanCare, which is the Medicaid program in Kansas. Whether you're a parent, senior, caregiver, or someone navigating the system for the first time, understanding how Medicaid works is essential. This guide answers the top five most common questions people ask about Medicaid in Kansas to help you or your loved ones get the care you need.
Who Qualifies for Medicaid in Kansas?
Kansas administers its Medicaid program under the name KanCare, which provides coverage for children, pregnant women, seniors, people with disabilities, and low-income adults. Eligibility is determined based on several factors:
Income Level
Eligibility is primarily based on income measured as a percentage of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). Common thresholds include:
Children under 19: Up to 250% of FPL
Pregnant women: Up to 171% of FPL
Seniors (65+) and individuals with disabilities: Asset and income limits apply
Parents and caregivers of minor children: Up to 38% of FPL
Residency and Citizenship
Applicants must:
Be residents of Kansas
Be U.S. citizens or qualified non-citizens
Other Considerations
Additional criteria such as age, disability status, or specific medical conditions may impact eligibility. If you're unsure, check eligibility directly at the KanCare website or speak with the experts at Advanced Legal Planning to receive tailored advice.
How Do I Apply for Medicaid in Kansas?
You can apply for KanCare using several methods based on what’s most convenient for you:
Apply Online
Visit www.kancare.ks.gov to use the consumer portal and complete the digital application.
Apply by Phone
Call the KanCare Clearinghouse at 1-800-792-4884 to apply or get help.
Apply In Person
Visit your nearest Kansas Department for Children and Families (DCF) office.
Apply by Mail or Fax
Download a paper application from the KanCare website and mail or fax it to the appropriate address listed on the form.
What You'll Need to Apply:
Social Security numbers for all applicants
Proof of income (pay stubs, tax returns)
Identification (driver’s license, passport)
Proof of residency (utility bill, lease agreement)
Proof of citizenship or legal status
Advanced Legal Planning can walk you through every step to ensure your application is complete and submitted correctly.
What Does Medicaid Cover in Kansas?
KanCare provides a comprehensive set of benefits. Coverage is managed by three private managed care organizations (MCOs) contracted with the state.
Core Covered Services Include:
Primary and specialist doctor visits
Hospital stays and surgeries
Emergency room and urgent care
Preventive services like vaccines and screenings
Prescription medications
Mental health and substance use treatment
Transportation to medical appointments
Home and community-based services (HCBS)
Long-term care, including nursing home stays
Dental and vision (primarily for children)
For full coverage information, review the KanCare covered services or speak with Advanced Legal Planning if you’re unsure which benefits you’re eligible for.
What If I Already Have Medicare?
Many Kansans wonder how Medicaid works for those already receiving Medicare. Fortunately, if you qualify for both programs, you’re considered “dual eligible.”
Dual Eligibility Benefits Include:
Medicaid may pay your Medicare Part B premium
Help with prescription drugs through Medicare Part D
Coverage for long-term care services that Medicare doesn’t provide
Access to special coordinated care programs
This combination of benefits can significantly reduce out-of-pocket healthcare costs. Advanced Legal Planning can help you navigate both programs and determine the best path for your healthcare needs.
Can I Lose My Medicaid Coverage?
Yes. Medicaid coverage must be maintained through annual redetermination—a process where the state checks to ensure you’re still eligible.
Common Reasons for Losing Coverage:
Your income increases beyond program limits
You move out of state
You don’t respond to renewal notices
You no longer meet age or disability criteria
How to Protect Your Coverage:
Keep your contact info current with the KanCare Clearinghouse
Respond to all mail from KanCare
Track renewal dates
Save copies of submitted paperwork
If you’ve lost coverage in error or received a denial you don’t understand, Advanced Legal Planning can help you appeal or reapply.
Bonus: Does Medicaid Cover Long-Term Care?
Yes—but with strict financial rules. KanCare covers long-term care services like:
Nursing home care
In-home care through HCBS waivers
Personal care attendants
Adult day care
Because there is a five-year lookback period on asset transfers and strict income/asset limits, planning ahead is critical to having a broader range of options to protect and preserve family assets.
Advanced Legal Planning specializes in helping families protect their home and savings while ensuring eligibility for care.
Final Thoughts
KanCare is a vital resource for thousands of Kansas residents, but navigating Medicaid rules on your own can be frustrating. From eligibility questions to application help, dual coverage, or long-term care, it pays to have a trusted partner.
Advanced Legal Planning is here to make the process easier, protect your finances, and give you peace of mind.
