Millions of Americans count on Medicaid to afford doctor visits, medications, and essential medical care. If you rely on Medicaid for your healthcare, you may have heard in the news about proposed state and federal changes to the program.
What's happening with Medicaid?
Medicaid is a critical safety net for almost 400,000 people in Cuyahoga and Geauga counties. The program supports children, expectant mothers, the elderly, and people living with disabilities by providing them with essential healthcare services.
Although no new changes have been made to the Medicaid program at the state or federal levels, changes are under discussion.
The federal government has introduced proposed language that could potentially change how much federal aid states will receive to administer their Medicaid programs. In addition, at the state level, Ohio has introduced a proposed Medicaid work requirement.
Ohio’s Proposed Work Requirement
Ohio Governor Mike DeWine has proposed a work requirement for some Medicaid recipients. If the federal government approves this change, adults between the ages of 18 and 54 who have incomes between 133% and 138% of the federal poverty line would need to meet one of the following conditions to keep their coverage:
- Be employed
- Be enrolled in school or job training
- Participate in a substance-abuse recovery program
- Have a physical or behavioral health condition that prevents employment
According to state officials, the goals of the work requirement are to reduce the need for Medicaid over time and create a healthier and economically stronger state.
How United Way of Greater Cleveland Can Help
If you have questions about healthcare coverage or how the proposed work requirements might affect you, you don’t have to figure things out alone.
United Way of Greater Cleveland, through United Way 211, is here to provide the right help at the right time, including finding healthcare options, saving on prescription drug costs, and connecting the community to basic needs like food, utilities, and housing support.
You Are Not Alone—Help Is Just a Call Away
United Way of Greater Cleveland has been a trusted community resource for over a century. We understand that navigating the safety net can be confusing, but we are here to ensure you have the support and guidance you need. If you or someone you know has questions about Medicaid or other basic needs, call 2-1-1 or chat with us at online at 211oh.org today.
No matter what happens, you are not alone—your support system starts with 2-1-1.
