In Kentucky, Medicaid is known as KYHealth.
In Kentucky, the state medical assistance program Medicaid is called KYHealth. People receiving medical assistance from the state of Kentucky are given a medical health card, which is only distributed to eligible Medicaid recipients to use when receiving covered services such as routine care, hospitalization, preventative screenings, immunizations, maternity care and prescription drugs, among others. The card serves as proof of coverage, although the medical provider confirms Medicaid eligibility before services are rendered.
You Must Be Medicaid Eligible
You must be eligible for Medicaid to receive a KYHealth card. Medicaid is a federal-state medical assistance program for very low income individuals and families who otherwise lack health coverage. To qualify, you must be a U.S. citizen or meet non-resident citizen requirements, a Kentucky resident and meet income and asset requirements. As of 2010, the state sets income limits of $217 per month for an individual and $383 per month for a family of four. Pregnant women, dependent children under 19, disabled parents and/or unemployed or underemployed parents who meet the income eligibility requirements for Medicaid should apply. The state sets income eligibility for pregnant women at 185 percent of the Federal Poverty Level---the equivalent of $1,670 for a household of one for 2010. The state automatically enrolls senior, blind and disabled Kentuckians receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits. If you think you may qualify, go to your local Department for Community Based Services (DCBS) office to file an application. DCBS issues KYHealth cards to eligible Medicaid recipients within 7 to 10 days of the application being approved. Each household member receives his own card.
Present KYHealth Card Before Receiving Services
The KYHealth card serves as your Medicaid identification card, and your name and identification number is printed on the front. Bring the card with you any time you receive medical services. A magnetic stripe is located on the back of the card and confirms your identify and Medicaid eligibility when swiped. A medical provider swipes the card before services are rendered.
Never Throw the Card Away
The plastic KYHealth card, which replaced paper cards in 2005, is permanent. Do not throw the card away even if you no longer qualify for Medicaid. The Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services recommends keeping the card in a safe place when you no longer qualify for medical assistance. Take the card when you meet with your caseworker or visit your local Family Support Office to review your benefit eligibility. Contact your local DCBS office for another card when your card is lost.
Tags: medical assistance, eligible Medicaid, your local, 2010 state, assistance program