The following information details health insurance and assistance programs available to uninsured people in Kentucky. If you currently have health insurance or have just lost health insurance coverage within the past 60 days, visit the health insurance section of our Web site for options available to you.
Kentucky Department of Insurance - (800) 595-6053
In Kentucky, state law allows health insurance companies to turn people down for individual health insurance coverage based on the status of their health. In most cases, diabetes is considered an “uninsurable” condition. Even though you can be turned down for an individual policy in Kentucky, you can never be turned down for health insurance that is offered through an employer.
If you are having a problem with your state-regulated health plan and you are unable to resolve it with the plan directly, file a complaint with the Department of Insurance. They may be able to provide you with assistance in reaching a conclusion.
Kentucky Medicaid - (800) 807-1301
Medicaid is available to anyone who meets income and eligibility criteria. Even if your income meets the criteria, you must fall into one of the eligibility categories in order to qualify. Contact your state Medicaid program for more information.
Kentucky Access - (866) 405-6145
Kentucky Access is the Kentucky state high-risk pool. This program allows individual health insurance policies to be sold to people who might otherwise be considered “uninsurable” because of a chronic illness. Premiums may be high, and a pre-existing condition period may apply. Contact Kentucky Access for more information.
Kentucky Children’s Health Insurance Program (KCHIP)- State Children’s Health Insurance Program - (877) 524-4718
KCHIP is the health insurance program designed to provide coverage to children and teens up to age 19 whose families may have too great an income or assets to qualify for Medicaid, but who may not be able to afford health insurance. Visit the Web site to find out if you or your child meets the income guidelines.
Kentucky ICARE - 877-ICARE-07 The Insurance Coverage Affordability and Relief to Small Employers (ICARE) program will provide monetary assistance to help employers pay the monthly premiums for employee health insurance plans. ICARE targets two types of employers: small businesses that have not offered health coverage in the past 12 months are eligible for a $40 incentive per employee per month, while those employing someone with a high-cost condition are eligible for $60 in monthly support. Further information on the program can be obtained by calling the ICARE hotline at 877-ICARE-07 (877-422-7307).
If you or your loved one is unable to see a physician due to the cost of care, there may be a local community health clinic in your area. These clinics generally are free to patients or require a very small fee. Find a clinic in your area.
Having trouble finding or keeping adequate or affordable health insurance coverage? Become a diabetes advocate!
