FRANKFORT — Kentucky's Medicaid recipients are now eligible for products and medications to help them stop smoking, Gov. Steve Beshear said Monday.

To participate in the program, recipients must be evaluated by a doctor, an advanced practice registered nurse or a physician assistant, and enroll in counseling programs.

"This is a great opportunity for Medicaid recipients to stop smoking or using tobacco, start living healthier lifestyles and create a healthier environment in their homes — which will ultimately save lives and precious health care dollars," Beshear said in a news release.

The state legislature allocated $1.5 million a year in state funds for this year and next to implement the program. Federal matching funds are projected to be $4.7 million this year and $3.7 million next year.