Summary:
Current Status of Medicaid Expansion in State:
State is studying options, leaning toward expansion or alternatives.
Decision Process:
Regular legislative process
Background:
· Currently:
19% of Ohio residents are enrolled in Medicaid, 75% of whom have managed care. The state’s current Medicaid program covers up to 200% FPL depending on the specific program. The Department of Job and Family Services oversees the state’s Medicaid program.
· Expansion:
Expansion of Medicaid to 133% would be a 32% expansion over current enrollment.
· Process:
Though state officials have expressed concern over how Ohio would pay for its share of the expansion, no decision has been made on the expansion. It is possible that if state lawmakers will not pass the Medicaid expansion, the issue will be put to Ohio's voters.
State Activity:
· Governor Kasich has expressed concerns that the funding needed by expanding Medicaid will result in cuts in other areas for the state. Rather than expanding Medicaid, the state is exploring the option of using federal funds to help individuals purchase insurance throught the exchange, as suggested by Arkansas. However, his budget containing funds for the expansion was rejected by the State Senate, whose proposed budget includes no such funds. Despite this, the Senate President said that there is still some potential for Medicaid reform.
· Ohio is one of the states that sued for repeal of the ACA.
· Ohio opted out of the state exchange in a letter that indicates Ohio may also not be expanding Medicaid according to the ACA. Since then the Governor has submitted a budget which includes funds for the Medicaid Expansion. Ohio has been working with the federal government to reach a compromise on the implementation and operation of an expansion, and though progress has been made, the two sides have yet to reach and agreement.
· The Governor’s office provides information and updates on its Health Transformation website.
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