Alabama

Alabama

Number of dialysis patients statewide: 7,538

This state does not currently offer Medigap insurance to dialysis patients under 65.

Legislative session: February 5 - May 20, 2013

Medicare, a federal program, pays for dialysis for over 80% of dialysis treatments. However, many issues concerning dialysis patients are actually handled at the state level.

Individual states have to provide certain basic services under Medicaid, but they also have flexibility in how they structure their plans and set their reimbursement rates. In addition, some states have the authority to determine the need and location for additional dialysis facilities (this is often referred to as certificate of need). Because dialysis patients’ care can be affected by state officials as well as federal officials, DPC members are becoming more active on state issues—ensuring the patients’ voice is heard locally as well as nationally.

Alabama Dialysis Patient Resources

Patient Support and Financial Resources

Alabama Kidney Foundation
This foundation has a variety of programs to assist patients suffering from kidney disease.
A financial assistance program exists for dialysis patients, but current kidney patients in stages 1-4 of chronic kidney disease are not eligible.  A maximum award of $150 is available per patient.  Income is not a factor for eligibility in this program.  The patient must be on dialysis, a state resident and seek aid through their social worker.
1-800-750-3331

ESRD Network

#8 ESRD Network
1755 Lelia Drive, Suite 400
Jackson, MS  39216
1-877-936-9260

State-Run Programs

Insure Alabama
1-888-373-5437

  • Adult Programs: Pays for medical and long-term care services for low-income pregnant women, children, certain people on Medicare, disabled individuals and nursing home residents. These individuals must meet certain income and other requirements.
  • Programs for Children: ALL Kids is a low-cost, comprehensive healthcare coverage program for children under age 19.
  • Medication Programs: SenioRX/Wellness Resource Center Prescription assistance and wellness program for people over age 55 with chronic medical conditions and no prescription coverage.

 

Health Reform Status:

Exhange: The federal government will run the health insurance exchange in Alabama.

Medicaid: Alabama will not expand Medicaid.

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