Volunteer Program

The KanCare Ombudsman Volunteer Program is designed to help serve KanCare members in resolving problems regarding their services, coverage, access and rights.

All volunteers are asked to complete an application, background check and interview. Accepted volunteers complete in-person training and shadow an 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 also receive ongoing training as part of their continuing education. To inquire about the Volunteer Program, please contact the KanCare Ombudsman Office at 855-643-8180, or email Kancare.Ombudsman@ks.gov.

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!

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 can contact the KanCare Ombudsman Office at 855-643-8180, or by email at Kancare.Ombudsman@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 aids, services, and policy modifications will be provided upon request. Please call Lydia Brookins, KanCare Ombudsman Assistant, at 316-978-3566 or 711 (Relay) at least five working days before the training session.