Medicare & Medicaid, made clear.
Navigating coverage shouldn't be the hard part of getting care. Here's a plain-language guide to signing up for Medicare and Medicaid in Missouri and Kansas — with where to apply and who to call.
Medicare (federal)
Medicare is the federal health insurance program for people 65 and older (and some younger people with disabilities or end-stage renal disease). Enrollment is handled through the Social Security Administration — the same process whether you live in Missouri or Kansas.
- 1Confirm your Initial Enrollment Period — a 7-month window that begins 3 months before the month you turn 65 and ends 3 months after.
- 2Apply online at the Social Security Administration website, or call 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778).
- 3Have your Social Security number, birth date, and any military or dependent information ready.
- 4Choose your coverage: Original Medicare (Parts A & B), plus a Part D drug plan and/or Medigap, or a Medicare Advantage (Part C) plan.
- 5Watch for your Medicare card in the mail and bring it to every appointment.
Medicaid by state
Missouri
MO HealthNet (Missouri Medicaid)
MO HealthNet provides health coverage to eligible Missourians based on income, family size, age, disability, or pregnancy. Applications are handled by the Missouri Family Support Division.
- 1Apply online through the Missouri Department of Social Services (myDSS) portal.
- 2Or call the Family Support Division at 855-373-4636 to apply by phone.
- 3Provide proof of income, identity, residency, and household composition.
- 4If eligible, choose a Managed Care health plan during enrollment.
- 5Receive your MO HealthNet card and present it at each visit.
Eligibility and plan options change over time. For the most current requirements, confirm with the state agency above or ask our front desk — we're glad to help you understand your options, though we can't determine eligibility on your behalf.