Andy Brown discusses KanCare budget and changes for HCBS waivers in Kansas

In a recent meeting of the Robert G. Bethell Joint Committee on Home and Community Based Services and KanCare Oversight, key discussions centered around the pressing issues of healthcare access and funding for home and community-based services (HCBS) in Kansas. The meeting, held on July 14, 2025, highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by the state's healthcare system, particularly in underserved areas.

One of the primary topics was the TMAG grant, aimed at expanding both traditional and nontraditional provider coverage in Kansas's "desert areas," where healthcare access is severely limited. The current coverage for doulas, a vital support service, remains inadequate, prompting calls for increased funding and resources to address these gaps.

Andy Brown, the Deputy Secretary for Programs at the Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services (KDADS), presented updates on KanCare 2 and 3, focusing on changes to the HCBS waivers. He emphasized the importance of care coordination and real-time reporting to enhance service delivery and oversight. The committee was informed about the budget adjustments reflecting significant increases in funding for various waivers, including the brain injury and intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) waivers, which have seen expansions in eligibility and service capacity.

A critical concern raised during the meeting was the growing waitlist for the IDD waiver, which currently exceeds the state-mandated cap by 482 individuals. The estimated cost to accommodate these additional slots is approximately $33.5 million, raising questions about the sustainability of funding and the state's ability to meet the needs of its most vulnerable populations.

The committee also discussed the implications of the upcoming renewal dates for several HCBS waivers, with a focus on ensuring compliance with federal requirements. The urgency of addressing the waitlist and expanding service availability was echoed by multiple committee members, who expressed frustration over the slow progress in implementing the community-based waiver that has been in development for three years.

As the meeting concluded, the committee members were left with a sense of urgency regarding the need for strategic planning and increased funding to ensure that Kansas residents have access to essential healthcare services. The discussions underscored the ongoing challenges within the state's healthcare system and the critical need for collaborative efforts to address these issues effectively.