11 Expats Talk about Health Insurance and Healthcare in Kentucky
Last updated on Feb 12, 2023
Summary: The quality of medical care in Kentucky is generally on par with the rest of the United States. Kentucky has a wide range of medical facilities, from small rural clinics to large urban hospitals, and the quality of care is generally good. Emergency services are also available throughout the state, and ambulances can be called by dialing 911.
How are healthcare services Kentucky?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Kentucky, they replied:
"Kentucky offers a wide range of healthcare services, including primary care, specialty care, mental health services, and preventive care. The state is home to many excellent hospitals and medical facilities, including the University of Kentucky Albert B. Chandler Hospital in Lexington, Norton Hospital in Louisville, and Baptist Health in Paducah. These hospitals offer a variety of services, including emergency care, surgery, and rehabilitation. In addition, Kentucky has numerous community health centers, rural health clinics, and other medical facilities that provide quality care to residents throughout the state," said one expat living in Kentucky.
What are medical services in Kentucky like?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Kentucky, they replied:
"In Kentucky, medical services are widely available and of a high quality. The state has a large network of hospitals, clinics, and medical centers that provide a range of services, from primary care to specialized treatments. Kentucky also has a number of medical research centers and universities that are dedicated to advancing medical knowledge and providing the latest treatments. Additionally, the state has a number of health insurance plans that provide coverage for medical services," wrote one expat.
Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Kentucky?
"Healthcare and health insurance in Kentucky can be expensive, depending on the type of coverage and provider. Generally, health insurance premiums in Kentucky are higher than the national average, and the cost of healthcare services can also be higher than in other states. Additionally, Kentucky has some of the highest rates of uninsured residents in the country, which can lead to higher costs for those who do have insurance," said an expat in Kentucky.
What are emergency services like in Kentucky?
When we asked about emergency services, members in Kentucky wrote:
"In Kentucky, emergency services are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. To call for an ambulance, you can dial 911 from any phone. The operator will ask for your location and the nature of the emergency, and will then dispatch an ambulance to your location. Emergency services in Kentucky are provided by local fire departments, police departments, and emergency medical services," wrote an expat living in Kentucky.
Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
"Some of the cities and areas in Kentucky with the best selection of medical specialists include Lexington, Louisville, and Northern Kentucky. Lexington offers top-notch medical resources, including comprehensive access to specialists in all medical fields. Louisville and Northern Kentucky are also well-regarded for their excellent selection of specialists, allowing both urban and rural areas to be served by world-class medical care. Furthermore, other cities such as Frankfort, Bowling Green, and Owensboro also boast numerous specialists, making them great options for those seeking out specialized care," wrote an expat living in Kentucky.
Are common prescription medications available in Kentucky?
"Yes, common prescription medications are available in Kentucky. Most pharmacies in the state carry a wide variety of medications, including both brand-name and generic drugs. Many pharmacies also offer special discounts and programs to help make medications more affordable. Additionally, many health insurance plans cover prescription medications, making them more accessible to those who need them," said one expat.
Do you have anything more to add about local medical facilities in Kentucky?
"Medical care in Kentucky is generally of a high quality, with a range of options available to suit the needs of all patients. Kentucky is home to a number of highly-rated hospitals and healthcare facilities, as well as numerous medical clinics, doctor's offices and specialized care centers. The state is also home to a range of public and private health insurance plans that offer comprehensive coverage and peace of mind for patients. In addition, many Kentucky medical professionals strive to deliver compassionate, patient-centered care that emphasizes not just treatment but also promoting health and wellness," mentioned one expat in Kentucky.
As a foreigner living in Kentucky, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
"Yes, as a foreigner living in Kentucky, you will have access to public healthcare. Kentucky has a Medicaid program that provides health coverage to low-income individuals and families, including those who are not citizens. The program covers a wide range of services, including doctor visits, hospital stays, prescription drugs, and preventive care. The quality of care varies depending on the provider, but overall, Kentucky's public healthcare system is considered to be of good quality," commented one expat living in Kentucky.
What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
We asked expats in Kentucky if they have access to public healthcare in Kentucky. And, if they do have access, what is it like. They wrote...
"My experiences with the local healthcare system in Kentucky during the pandemic have been mostly positive. The healthcare providers in my area have been very responsive to my needs and have been willing to answer any questions I have had. I have been able to access telehealth services when needed, and the staff have been very accommodating and helpful. I have also been able to access testing and other services when needed. Overall, I have been very pleased with the level of care I have received from the local healthcare system during the pandemic," said an expat in Kentucky.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
Other Questions:
- How do I meet people in Kentucky?
- What is life like as an expat in your area?
- Is there a lot of crime in Kentucky?
- What do I need to know before retiring in Kentucky?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Kentucky accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Kentucky like?
- Is the cost of living in Kentucky high?
- What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Kentucky?
- What are healthcare services like in Kentucky?
- Is the cost of living in Kentucky high?
- What type of recreational facilities are in Kentucky?
- What is the weather like in Kentucky?
- Are there good restaurants in Kentucky?
- Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Kentucky?
- What are the visa & residency requirements in Kentucky?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Kentucky?
- What do I need to know when buying property in Kentucky?
- Are foreigners allowed to own property in Kentucky?
- What appliances are typically included in a rental?