How Do I Use My Coverage?

Once you’re approved, you can start using your Kentucky Medicaid benefits. Here’s how to find a provider, get a ride to your appointment, and see what’s covered.

In an emergency

For any life-threatening emergency — chest pain, trouble breathing, a serious injury — call 911 right away or go to the nearest emergency room. You don’t need approval from your MCO first, and you don’t need to arrange a ride before you go.

Emergency rooms are required by federal law to treat you no matter your insurance or ability to pay. Show your Medicaid card when you arrive, but a missing card should never stop you from getting care.

After an ER visit, follow up with your primary care provider so they can coordinate your ongoing care. If you’re admitted to the hospital, contact your MCO’s member services as soon as you’re able — the number is on the back of your card.

Finding a provider

Most people get care through a managed care plan, or MCO. Each MCO has its own online directory of doctors, dentists, and hospitals that accept it. Before you book a visit, call the provider’s office to confirm they still take your plan — this can change.

Your Medicaid ID card lists your MCO and a member services number on the back. That number can also help you find a provider near you.

Most hospitals in Kentucky accept Medicaid, though it’s worth confirming coverage for specialty care or elective procedures before you schedule. Most major and local pharmacies accept Medicaid for prescriptions too — just bring your Medicaid card each time you fill one.

Getting a ride to your appointment

If you don’t have a way to get to a medical appointment, Kentucky Medicaid may be able to help through non-emergency medical transportation, or NEMT. Rides are arranged through a regional broker based on the county you live in. Pick your county below to find your broker.

Having trouble with your regional broker? Call the statewide HSTD Customer Service line at 1-888-941-7433.

What’s covered

Kentucky Medicaid covers doctor visits, hospital care, and emergency room care — a true emergency is always covered and never needs approval first. Prescriptions, lab work and imaging like X-rays, and mental health or substance use treatment are covered too. Some planned procedures need approval from your MCO before you schedule them, called prior authorization.

Children get full dental and vision coverage, including eyeglasses. Adults have more limited dental and vision benefits — check with your MCO for what’s included on your plan.

Sources: Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services and Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, Human Services Transportation

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