In response to COVID-19, the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) was authorized in March 2020, resulting in an increase in available matching funds for states. As a condition of receipt of these funds, states were not permitted to discontinue Medicaid coverage for individuals enrolled in the program on March 18, 2020, or who become enrolled during the emergency period, unless the individual voluntarily requests a discontinuance of eligibility, is no longer a resident of the state, or is deceased. States were also not permitted to reduce benefits for any individual enrolled in Medicaid on or after March 18, 2020 through the end of the month in which the emergency period ends. This continuous coverage requirement was to remain in effect through the end of the month in which the public health emergency ends. A series of Medicaid Eligibility Procedure Letters (MEPL) issued throughout 2020 by the Ohio Department of Medicaid (ODM) to all Ohio counties provided guidance on how to comply with the conditions of the FFCRA and ensure individuals in receipt of Medicaid retain coverage during the public health emergency.   

CJFS experienced a 15% increase in Medicaid enrollment between March 2020 and March 2022. As of March 2022, 36.13% of Cuyahoga County residents were enrolled in Medicaid. 

Through Medicaid enrollment, CJFS continues to ensure citizens of Cuyahoga County have access to health care during this public health emergency (PHE). The PHE has been in place since January 27, 2020 and the latest HHS extension for the PHE is effective through July 15, 2022.