Uninsured Kansas Children Reach 8.5%, Top U.S. Rate

The share of Kansas children without health insurance rose to 8.5% in 2025, leaving the state above the national rate for a second consecutive year and representing more than 60,000 uninsured children. Experts say complex Medicaid and KanCare applications, the end of pandemic-era benefits and fear of immigration enforcement under President Donald Trump may be contributing to the increase; some eligible families have reportedly withdrawn or avoided applying for coverage. At a public forum, advocates urged lawmakers to simplify application and renewal processes, warning that uninsured children may go without needed care and families may face medical debt.