Kansas Health Insurance: No Benefits For Life Partners

Kansas residents can obtain health insurance through the federal Health Insurance Marketplace, HealthCare.gov. This platform allows residents to select from a variety of health plans and receive income-based financial assistance if eligible. The Health Insurance Marketplace is a good option for people who don't have coverage through an employer, Medicare, Medicaid, the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP), or another source that provides qualifying health coverage. Kansas residents can also obtain health insurance through private companies, such as Blue KC, which offers wallet-friendly plans and a vast network of providers. It is important to note that Kansas has not expanded Medicaid for low-income adults, but children may be eligible for Medicaid or CHIP even if their parents aren't.

Qualifying life events for special enrollment

In Kansas, individuals and families may enroll in the Health Insurance Marketplace from November 1 through January 15. However, qualifying life events allow people to enroll outside of this open enrollment period.

Qualifying life events generally fall into four categories:

Loss of Health Coverage

• Losing your job and employer-sponsored insurance
• Losing eligibility for Medicare, Medicaid, or the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP)
• Turning 26 and losing coverage from your parent's health plan

Changes in Household

• Having a baby or adopting a child
• Getting married or divorced
• Death of the primary policyholder in the family

Changes in Residence

• Moving to a different zip code, county, or state that changes your health plan area
• A student moving to or from the place they attend school
• Moving to or from a shelter or other transitional housing

Other Qualifying Events

• Changes in your income that affect the coverage you qualify for
• Gaining membership in a federally recognized tribe or becoming an Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (ANCSA) Corporation shareholder
• Becoming a U.S. citizen
• Leaving incarceration
• AmeriCorps members starting or ending their service

If you experience a qualifying life event, you can typically make changes to your health insurance plan within 60 days before or after the event. You may be required to provide documentation, such as birth certificates, adoption records, marriage licenses, divorce paperwork, or proof of address change.

Health Insurance Marketplace

The Health Insurance Marketplace is the federal health insurance exchange in Kansas. It is where individuals and families can compare private health insurance plans and shop for coverage. The Health Insurance Marketplace also provides access to a tax credit to help lower and middle-income individuals pay for coverage. Through the marketplace, many lower-income individuals can get help to reduce their out-of-pocket costs (deductibles, coinsurance, or copayments) when they receive health care services.

In Kansas, any individual or family may buy coverage through the Health Insurance Marketplace, except those who are not legally in the United States or who are incarcerated.

The Health Insurance Marketplace is a federally facilitated exchange, but the federal government relies on the Kansas Department of Insurance to approve plans and review rates, provide consumer assistance, and perform other regulatory roles.

Individuals and families can apply for coverage through the Health Insurance Marketplace by visiting HealthCare.gov, calling (800) 318-2596, or getting free assistance from a certified Navigator.

The Health Insurance Marketplace is not the only way to buy health insurance in Kansas. Individuals can also buy coverage directly from an insurance company or through an insurance agent.

Medicaid (KanCare)

Medicaid is a federal and state health insurance programme for people with low incomes. KanCare is the name of the Medicaid programme in Kansas. It is administered by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) and the Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services (KDADS).

KanCare provides health coverage to qualifying children under the age of 19, expectant mothers who meet eligibility guidelines, and adult, non-disabled, non-elderly parents or caregivers of children younger than 19. It also offers health coverage and long-term care for people aged 65 and over and people with disabilities.

The following groups are eligible for KanCare:

• Qualifying children under the age of 19
• Expectant mothers who meet eligibility guidelines
• Adult, non-disabled, non-elderly parents or caregivers of children younger than 19
• People aged 65 and over
• People with disabilities

KanCare is available to children who qualify for either Medicaid or the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP). For families in some income categories, monthly premiums ranging from $20 to $50 per family apply.

KanCare can be used in conjunction with Medicare benefits and covers some services not covered by Medicare, including nursing home and long-term care. Participants may also receive financial assistance for Medicare Part D (prescription drug) expenses.

To apply for KanCare, call the KanCare Clearinghouse at 800-792-4884, Monday through Friday between the hours of 8 am and 5 pm.

Medicare

The Kansas Department of Insurance provides a free online tool to help you find the estimated premium rates for your Medicare supplement plans. This tool will show you the current estimated premiums and other relevant plan information.

KanCare

KanCare is Kansas's implementation of the Medicaid programme, which provides health coverage to eligible low-income individuals and families.

Short-term health insurance

• Coverage Length: Short-term health plans in Kansas offer coverage for up to three months, with the option to renew for an additional month. This is a recent change implemented by the government, reducing the maximum term from 12 months.
• Limited Benefits: Short-term plans provide limited coverage, typically including hospital stays, physician visits, emergency services, and some specialized services. They do not include pharmacy benefits and often exclude vision, dental care, and mental health services.
• Non-Renewability: Short-term plans in Kansas are non-renewable after the initial term and any permitted renewal period.
• Pre-existing Conditions: These plans generally exclude pre-existing conditions and are not adequate for individuals who require ongoing care for chronic or pre-existing conditions.
• Underwriting Requirements: Short-term health insurance plans require underwriting, and eligibility is based on the insurer's guidelines, typically including age and health status restrictions.
• ACA Non-Compliance: Short-term plans do not comply with the Affordable Care Act (ACA) and may result in applicable penalties since they do not qualify as Minimum Essential Coverage.
• Alternative Options: If you are considering short-term health insurance due to a coverage gap, other options include ACA Marketplace Plans, Medicaid, COBRA Coverage, and Community Health Clinics.

It is important to note that the availability and specifics of short-term health insurance plans can vary over time, and you should always check the latest regulations and offerings in Kansas to make an informed decision.

Frequently asked questions