Policy Agenda

Healthcare affordability continues to be a challenge for Kentucky families, driven in part by policies that limit competition and restrict the entry of new providers. These constraints reduce supply and contribute to higher costs and limited access to care. Addressing this issue requires removing barriers and allowing the healthcare system to respond more effectively to patient needs.

A primary focus for 2027 should be reforming certificate of need requirements, which currently limit the ability of providers to open facilities, expand services, and invest in equipment. Rolling back or eliminating these restrictions, particularly for outpatient services, diagnostic facilities, and rural providers, would increase competition and improve access. In addition, the state should strengthen price transparency requirements so that patients can better understand and compare costs.

Kentucky should also support direct care models such as subscription-based primary care, which reduce administrative burdens and allow providers to focus on patient outcomes. By expanding supply and encouraging innovation, these reforms will help lower costs and improve access to care across the state.