Kynect


kynect, formerly and also called the Kentucky Health Benefit Exchange, is the health insurance marketplace, previously known as health insurance exchange, in the U.S. Commonwealth of Kentucky, created by then-Governor Steve Beshear in accordance with the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. Steve Beshear's successor as governor, Matt Bevin, ended Kynect enrollment for individuals as of 2017. The marketplace operates a web site for small business owners. Bevin's successor, Andy Beshear, announced on June 17, 2020 that Kentucky will reestablish a state health insurance marketplace similar to kynect, with full implementation by January 1, 2022.

Purpose

The marketplace was offered to individuals and families who are not covered by their employer, allowing enrollees to compare health insurance plans and provides those who qualify with access to tax credits. Enrollment started on October 1, 2013 and the first enrollment period ended March 31, 2014.

Enrollment

137,000 individuals were reported using the website on the first four days of operation. The New York Times reported that Kentucky was "far ahead of most in signing up people" at the end of October, the first month of enrollment. By April 15, 2014, over 410,000 Kentuckians had signed up for health care plans through kynect.

Participating insurance providers