MCO Implementation
KanCare 3.0 launched Jan. 1, 2025, with Healthy Blue joining UnitedHealthcare and Sunflower as KanCare MCOs. To present, no systemic issues have been identified and individual issues have been promptly resolved, allowing Kansas Medicaid to return to typical business operations one month ahead of schedule. KDHE thanks the MCOs, our partners and State staff for their hard work and focus on launching KanCare 3.0 successfully.
Aetna has been an excellent partner as they exit the Kansas Medicaid program. They have been cooperative and willing to address concerns, leading to a successful transition with Healthy Blue.
Rate Study
The Kansas Medicaid rate study is posted on the KanCare website. The study compares Kansas Medicaid rates to rates in Nebraska, Missouri, Iowa, and Colorado, and to Medicare rates when available. Currently, dental, evaluation and management, radiology, medicine, transportation, and pathology and laboratory reports are publicly posted, with additional reports to come.
Transforming Maternal Health (TMaH) Model Grant
Kansas has been selected by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) as one of 15 states to participate in its Transforming Maternal Health (TMaH) Model program, which includes a $17 million grant award over the next 10 years. A project director has been appointed and KDHE continues to work with CMS in the beginning phases of grant activities.
Legislative Activities
The 2025 legislative session ended in early April, with several bills and budget items impacting the Medicaid program. KDHE is evaluating these bills and budget provisos and discussing their implementation.
KDHE and the Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services presented to the Robert G. (Bob) Bethell Joint Committee on Home and Community-Based Services and KanCare Oversight on April 14, 2025. The Committee discussed a variety of topics, including maternal and infant health and program improvements KDHE is undertaking, as well as updates about eligibility and other metrics. KDHE thanks the Committee for their time and dedication.