Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania

Number of dialysis patients statewide: 15,334

This state offers Medigap insurance to dialysis patients under 65.

Legislative session: January 1, 2013 - January 7, 2014

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.

Pennsylvania Dialysis Patient Resources

Patient Support and Financial Resources

National Kidney Foundation Serving the Alleghenies
Provides financial assistance to patients and families who are experiencing a financial crisis due to kidney disease or transplantation.
1-412-261-4115

Kidney Foundation of Central Pennsylvania (KFCP)
KFCP provides community education about chronic kidney disease, administers to the needs of those who have just learned of their disease, those who are dependent upon dialysis therapy and those who have received or are awaiting kidney transplants. 

4813 Jonestown RD, Suite 101, Harrisburg PA 17109
Toll Free: 1-800-762-6202
Phone: 717-652-8123

ESRD Network

#4 ESRD Network
40 24th Street, Suite 410
Pittsburgh, PA  15222
1-800-548-9205

State Run Programs

Health Care Medical Assistance
1-800-692-7462

  • Adult Programs: Medical Assistance Program (Medicaid) provides payment for health care services on behalf of eligible low-income individuals with limited income and high medical expenses.
  • Programs for Children: Cover All Kids is the initiative that lead to the expansion of the CHIP program. Now, all uninsured children and teens in the commonwealth who are not eligible for Medical Assistance have access to affordable, comprehensive health-care coverage.
  • Medication Programs: Prescription Assistance (PACENET) Prescription coverage for older residents with low income.  Prescription Assistance (PACE) Prescription coverage for older residents with very low income.
  • Additional Programs: AdultBasic Health insurance coverage for eligible adults between 19 and 65.

Health Reform Status

Exchange: The federal government will run the health insurance exchange in Pennsylivania.

Medicaid: It is not known at this time whether the state will expand Medicaid eligibility.

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