Lexington, Kentucky – Health care continues to be a significant concern among residents, ranking sixth in a recent survey, which highlighted issues such as cost of living, crime, and election integrity. As the state navigates challenges amplified by the pandemic, advancements in health care options have been noted, particularly regarding Medicaid expansion.
According to Dr. Joseph Benitez, a health economist at the University of Kentucky, Kentucky was already enhancing healthcare accessibility before the crisis. “There were some policies in place that allowed for Kentucky to stabilize access compared to other states,” he remarked, mentioning that Kentucky is among 41 states that expanded Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act.
In the past four years, Kentucky has successfully increased vital services, notably in telehealth. Dr. Benitez noted the importance of investments in high-speed internet, which have facilitated telehealth access for those in geographically isolated and medically underserved areas. “These investments can be really promising for people who need healthcare services but face barriers,” he stated.
The Cabinet for Health and Family Services confirmed that approximately 1.4 million Kentuckians, or one-third of the state’s population, are enrolled in Medicaid. Dr. Benitez pointed out that residents pay less in out-of-pocket health expenses compared to neighboring states, underscoring efforts to stabilize healthcare costs.
Despite these developments, Dr. Benitez emphasized that challenges remain in the healthcare landscape, particularly regarding rising costs. He remains optimistic about continued progress in making healthcare accessible and affordable for all Kentuckians.
