Texas

Texas

Number of dialysis patients statewide: 37,420

This state offers Medigap insurance to dialysis patients under 65.

Legislative session: January 8 - May 27, 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.

Texas Dialysis Patient Resources

Patient Support and Financial Resources

Texas Renal Coalition
The Texas Renal Coalition has represented patients and families with kidney disease for over 16 years, providing public awareness of the disease, promoting educational resources among the numerous councils, agencies, and legislative bodies involved with kidney and related issues, and advocating change where needed of state and federal programs.  The TRC does this through a network of partners.
7014 Whispering Oaks Drive
Austin, TX 78745
1-512-441-3444

ESRD Network

#14 End Stage Renal Disease Network of Texas
4040 McEwen Road, Suite 350
Dallas, TX  75244
1-972-503-3215

State Run Programs

Texas Department of State Health Services
Kidney Health Care Program
A non-Medicaid, completely state-funded program for persons who have End Stage Renal Disease.  It pays for the dialysis treatment only.  The only requirements to enroll in this program are: the recipient must be a U.S. citizen, legal resident of the state of Texas, and they must get regular dialysis treatments or have received a kidney transplant.  In addition, participants in this program cannot receive Medicaid medical, drug or travel benefits.  Participants may also not make more than $60,000 per year.  Patients should find and complete all the necessary documentation through their social worker at the dialysis clinic they currently utilize.

Texas Medicaid Program
1-877-541-7905
or In State dial 211

  • Adult Programs: Programs include Medicaid buy-in programs, insurance premium assisance and help for the disabled.  
  • Programs for Children: Texas families with uninsured children may be able to get health insurance through the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP).
  • Medication Programs: The Vendor Drug Program can provide links to prescription resources.
  • Additional Programs: The Kidney Health Care Program (KHC) Provides assistance to Texas residents with a diagnosis of End-Stage Renal Disease.

Health Reform Status

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

Medicaid: The state will not expand Medicaid eligibility.

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