Home » CHFS launches new Medicaid program to help members obtain commercial insurance

CHFS launches new Medicaid program to help members obtain commercial insurance

FRANKFORT, Ky. — In line with its commitment to support improved health outcomes for Kentuckians, the Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS) has launched a new Medicaid program.

The Kentucky Integrated Health Insurance Premium Payment (KI-HIPP) program helps eligible Medicaid members cover the cost of an employer-sponsored health insurance plan.

Kentuckians qualify for KI-HIPP if they or a member of their household are eligible for Medicaid and have access to comprehensive and cost-effective health insurance through their job. When a member enrolls, KI-HIPP pays them for their share of the cost of the insurance premium.

“KI-HIPP is a wonderful way to extend the resources in the Medicaid budget by utilizing employer-based insurance dollars while protecting the Medicaid member from any additional costs,” said Carol Steckel, commissioner of the Department for Medicaid Services (DMS).

“It also allows the Medicaid member the opportunity to move into the employer market and take greater control over their own health care decisions as they become more self-sufficient,” Steckel added.

In a time when Medicaid is putting increasing pressure on the Commonwealth’s budget, KI-HIPP is a win-win for Kentucky.

In addition to saving taxpayer dollars, KI-HIPP provides Medicaid members with access to an expanded network of healthcare providers and more affordable individual and family care without the loss of Medicaid benefits.

As an added benefit, the program may allow an entire family to be on the same plan and access the same doctors.

Medicaid members who may be eligible for KI-HIPP will receive notices, beginning on August 5. Those who are interested in signing up for the program can apply online via benefind.ky.gov or call (855) 459-6328.

For more information about KI-HIPP, as well as resources for members and community partners, visit http://bit.ly/kihipp.

Additional information is available at http://chfs.ky.gov/.