Where Can I Get More Help?
Save this page. It has phone numbers worth keeping, answers to a few common questions, and plain-language definitions for terms you’ll see across this site.
Phone numbers worth saving
- Medical emergency 911 For any life-threatening emergency. Do not use NEMT for emergencies.
- DCBS — applications & case changes 855-306-8959 Apply, check your case, report changes, or ask about renewals.
- Your MCO — benefits & providers Member services number is printed on the back of your Medicaid card. Call for prior authorization, provider directory, and benefit questions.
- kynect — online portal kynect.ky.gov Apply, check your case status, upload documents, and manage your account.
- Free local help (kynectors) Find a kynector Certified helpers who can walk you through applying or renewing at no charge.
- Rides to appointments (NEMT) Find your county’s broker Your ride broker depends on which county you live in.
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to renew my coverage every year?
Yes. Kentucky reviews your case once a year in a process called redetermination. Watch your mail and kynect for a renewal notice, and respond by the deadline so your coverage doesn’t stop. You can find renewal details at khbe.ky.gov.
What if my application or coverage is denied?
You usually have the right to appeal. Your deadline to appeal is printed on your denial notice — it can vary depending on the type of decision, so check your letter rather than guess, and don’t wait. To start, follow the instructions in the notice, or call DCBS or your MCO’s member services number for help.
How do I update my address, income, or household?
Report changes as soon as they happen. You can update your information in kynect or by calling DCBS at 855-306-8959. Keeping this current helps prevent a gap in your coverage.
Glossary
- MCO
- Managed Care Organization. The private health plan Kentucky pays to manage your Medicaid benefits and provider network.
- DCBS
- Department for Community Based Services. The state office that processes applications and case changes.
- kynect
- Kentucky’s official website for applying and managing your benefits.
- KCHIP
- Kentucky Children’s Health Insurance Program. Covers kids whose families earn a bit too much for regular Medicaid.
- NEMT
- Non-Emergency Medical Transportation. Free rides to medical appointments for people who don’t have another way to get there.
- kynector
- A free, trained helper who can walk you through applying for or renewing Medicaid.
- Redetermination
- The yearly review Kentucky does to confirm you still qualify for Medicaid. Also called renewal.
- FPL
- Federal Poverty Level. A dollar amount set each year by the federal government, used to help decide if your income qualifies for Medicaid.
Sources: Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services and Kentucky Health Benefit Exchange, Medicaid Renewals
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