DCBS

Department for Community Based Services

The Kentucky state agency that processes Medicaid and KCHIP applications, renewals, and case changes. Find your local office →

EMTALA

Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act

A federal law requiring hospital emergency rooms to screen and stabilize anyone who arrives, regardless of insurance or ability to pay.

FPL

Federal Poverty Level

A measure of income set by the federal government each year. Medicaid eligibility thresholds are expressed as a percentage of FPL (e.g., “138% FPL”).

Formulary

Your MCO plan’s list of covered prescription drugs. If your medication isn’t on the formulary, your doctor may request an exception.

In-network

A provider (doctor, clinic, hospital) that has a contract with your MCO plan. Using in-network providers means your Medicaid covers their services. How to find in-network providers →

KHBE

Kentucky Health Benefit Exchange

The state agency that oversees kynect, the online benefits portal. KHBE manages Medicaid enrollments and renewals.

KCHIP

Kentucky Children’s Health Insurance Program

Low-cost health coverage for children and teens under 19 in families with income too high for Medicaid but who can’t afford private insurance. KCHIP overview →

kynect

Kentucky’s official online benefits portal at kynect.ky.gov. Used to apply for Medicaid, check case status, upload documents, and manage your account.

kynector

A free, certified local helper who can assist you with applying for Medicaid, KCHIP, or marketplace coverage. Find one at kynect.ky.gov.

MCO

Managed Care Organization

A health insurance plan that manages your Medicaid benefits, provider network, and prior authorizations. Most Kentucky Medicaid members are enrolled in an MCO. Your MCO’s member services number is on the back of your Medicaid card. As of 2025–2026, Kentucky’s five Medicaid MCOs are: Aetna Better Health, Humana, Molina Healthcare (Passport), UnitedHealthcare Community Plan, and WellCare. Plans can change — confirm your current plan at kynect.ky.gov.

NEMT

Non-Emergency Medical Transportation

Free rides to and from scheduled medical appointments for Medicaid members who have no other way to get there. Arranged through your county’s broker — not for emergencies (call 911 instead). Find your NEMT broker →

Prior Authorization

Advance approval from your MCO before you receive certain medical services or prescriptions. Your doctor’s office typically handles the request. Emergency care never requires prior authorization.

Redetermination

The annual review process to confirm you still qualify for Medicaid. Also called a renewal. You’ll receive a notice by mail or in kynect — respond by the deadline. Renewal guide →

Last updated: Mar 26, 2026