Kidney Health Care (KHC) program stands as a crucial statewide initiative in Texas, dedicated to providing vital financial assistance to residents grappling with end-stage renal disease (ESRD). This program is thoughtfully designed to alleviate the financial burdens associated with managing ESRD, ensuring that Texans have access to necessary treatments and services.
The KHC program extends its support to cover a range of essential needs, including:
- Dialysis Treatments: Covering the costs of life-sustaining dialysis procedures.
- Access Surgery: Assisting with expenses related to surgeries for dialysis access.
- Prescription Drugs: Helping to afford necessary medications.
- Travel for Care: Reimbursing mileage for travel to dialysis or transplant services.
- Medicare Premiums: Aiding with the costs of Medicare coverage.
For a comprehensive understanding of the program’s benefits and guidelines, you can consult the Kidney Health Care Client Handbook (PDF).
Exciting News: Expanded Medicare Coverage for Immunosuppressant Drugs
A significant update for kidney transplant recipients! As of January 1, 2023, the Comprehensive Immunosuppressive Drug Coverage for Kidney Transplant Patients Act is in effect. This landmark legislation ensures lifetime Medicare coverage for immunosuppressant drugs (ISDs) for eligible kidney transplant recipients. This expansion offers substantial long-term financial relief and healthcare security. Further details are available in the Expanded Medicare Coverage of ISDs for Kidney Transplant Patients (PDF) notice.
Accessing Kidney Health Care Services
The KHC program prioritizes convenient access to services. You can receive covered treatments and support in various settings:
- At Home: For home-based dialysis and care.
- Hospitals: Inpatient and outpatient hospital facilities.
- Dialysis Facilities: Specialized centers for dialysis treatments.
- Pharmacies: For prescription drug needs.
It’s important to note that services are exclusively available through KHC-participating providers, ensuring quality and coordinated care within the program network.
Optimized access to kidney health services through strategic partnerships with home care, hospitals, dialysis centers, and pharmacies.
Determining Your Eligibility for the Kidney Health Care Program
Eligibility for the KHC program is based on specific criteria designed to support Texas residents most in need. You may be eligible if you:
- Reside in Texas: Proof of Texas residency is required.
- Meet Income Requirements: Have an annual income of less than $60,000.
- Have ESRD Diagnosis: A licensed physician must diagnose end-stage renal disease.
- Require Regular Dialysis or Have Had a Transplant: Actively undergoing dialysis or have received a kidney transplant.
- Meet Medicare’s ESRD Definition: Fulfill Medicare’s criteria for end-stage renal disease.
- Not Eligible for Full Medicaid Benefits: Must not be receiving full Medicaid medical, drug, and travel benefits.
Applying for Kidney Health Care Program Assistance
Initiating your application for the KHC program is a streamlined process. The first step involves visiting a KHC-participating facility. These facilities include outpatient dialysis centers, hospitals, and U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs facilities. Social workers at these locations are invaluable resources, offering expert assistance with the application process.
For detailed guidance on application submission, please refer to the KHC Program and Application Information (PDF).
To submit your application and supporting documents, your social worker will need to send them to the KHC program. KHC accommodates application submissions via:
- Email: Applications can now be emailed to KHC Apply for faster processing.
- Fax: For application submissions only, use fax number 512-206-3982.
- Mail: Traditional mail submissions are also accepted.
Setting Up Direct Deposit for Travel Reimbursement
To expedite and simplify the receipt of travel reimbursement payments, KHC offers a direct deposit option. Once your application is approved, you can complete the KHC Direct Deposit Authorization (PDF) form. Submit the completed form via fax, email, or mail using the contact information provided below.
Get in Touch with the Kidney Health Care Program
For any questions or further assistance, the KHC team is readily available.
Sign up for email updates to stay informed about program updates.
Phone: 800-222-3986 (Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Central Time)
Local Austin Phone: 512-776-7150
General Fax: 512-776-7162
Email: [email protected]
Mailing Address:
Kidney Health Care
Mail Code 1938
P.O. Box 149030
Austin, TX 78714-9947
