Volunteer Program

The KanCare Ombudsman Volunteer Program is designed to help serve KanCare members in resolving problems regarding their services, coverage, access and rights. The program is currently training volunteers in the Kansas City Metro area.

All volunteers are asked to complete an application, background check and interview. Accepted volunteers complete in-person training and shadow and experienced staff member prior to starting their service. They are tested after their training for competency on the following subjects:

• Handling of calls and levels of inquiries
• Practice cases and case studies
• Resources for beneficiaries
• Processes – applications, benefits, and claims
• Grievances, appeals and state fair hearings

Volunteers will do ongoing training on various topics as part of their continuing education for the volunteer team. To contact the Ombudsman Office or a volunteer near you call 855-643-8180 or email.

Volunteer Application

Thank you for your interest in the KanCare Ombudsman Volunteer Program. We are always excited to begin working with the new volunteers and look forward to contacting you.

You may print the application from the Volunteer Application PDF and mail your completed application to:

KanCare Ombudsman Satellite Office
c/o Carolyn Coyne
8915 Lenexa Drive
Overland Park, KS 66214

Or call Carolyn Coyne, Volunteer Coordinator, (913) 942-3245.

Or complete the Online Application to submit your application electronically.

Volunteer Testimonials

“As a retiree, I was looking for an opportunity to volunteer in a meaningful way and became aware of the KanCare Ombudsman's Office. I had a lot to learn about Medicaid in order to answer questions and help people resolve those issues, and the Ombudsman's Team's support has been key. They are always willing to help volunteers when we have questions or need assistance. Callers often thank us as much for listening as for the actual problem solving. I enjoy the challenge!”
- Mary, Volunteer since 2019

Volunteer Recognition

Meet Our Team

Volunteers are the heart of the KanCare Ombudsman program. Since the inception of the volunteer program in 2015 our volunteers assisted thousands of Kansans with questions ranging from where to send a Medicaid application, to the reason a consumer's services may have changed. The work our volunteers do is extremely valuable to the KanCare Ombudsman Office, and we would like to recognize them all for their unique service and dedication to our mission to help break the cycle of poverty through improving the quality of life and access to services for Medicaid eligible Kansans.

Highlighting a Volunteer

By helping KanCare members, our volunteers are making a difference in the lives of people who need answers to questions, who need a listening ear, and who need a resource. Thanks to them, an answer is readily available with a friendly voice and someone who wants to help. Thank you for your commitment to supporting KanCare members in resolving problems regarding services, coverage, access and rights. We appreciate you!

For volunteer appreciation posts and Medicaid related updates, follow us on Facebook at KanCare Ombudsman!

Length of Service

One Year

• 2 Volunteers in Johnson County Office
• 1 Volunteer in Wichita Office

Two Years

Three Years

• 1 Volunteer in Johnson County Office

Four Years

• 1 Volunteer in Johnson County Office

Five + Years

Community Training

The KanCare Ombudsman Office provides training for managed care organizations, providers and community-based organizations to help staff that work with Kansas Medicaid members and applicants acquire a better understanding of:

• The KanCare Ombudsman Office, how it works and resources available
• How to Assist with Medicaid Applications
• Medicaid Related Resources and Support

Organizations interested in training for their staff can contact Kerrie Bacon, KanCare Ombudsman at kerrie.bacon@ks.gov.

Current training available online:

• Guides to completing the KanCare Elderly and Disabled Application (KC1500)
• Medicare Savings Programs Application
• Cultural Awareness and Trauma Informed Care Training
• Accessibility Guidelines for Word and PowerPoint
• How to make Accessible Videos

KDHE also provides Medicaid training at various times throughout the year. For information on upcoming training go to Training Opportunities. You can also sign up to receive notices for upcoming KDHE Medicaid training at MedicaidTraining@ks.gov.

Note: To accommodate people with disabilities, auxiliary aides, services and modifications to policies will be provided on request. Please call Robert Stevens, KanCare Ombudsman Specialist, at 785-296-1492 or 711 (Relay) to make request at least five working days prior to training session.