October 6, 2010 -  A recent statute in the state of Kentucky will grant Medicaid recipients eligibility for cessation counseling and nicotine replacement drugs, if necessary, to help them stop smoking.  The 2010-12 state budget provides $3 million for the program, which will be matched with $8.4 million in federal funds.

While the adult smoking rate in Kentucky is very high, about 25%, the rate among Medicaid recipients in Kentucky is even higher – an astounding 40%. By instituting this policy, the legislature hopes to reduce the prevalence of smoking in the state and save money. This strong step forward in tobacco cessation policy is expected to improve the health of Kentuckians, and lessen the $500 million annual spending of the state Medicaid program on tobacco-related illnesses.

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