HPIO publication outlines policy considerations for the future of Medicaid expansion

HPIO has released a new brief titled “Policy Considerations: The Future of Group VIII (expansion) Medicaid Coverage in Ohio.”

In 2014, when Ohio expanded Medicaid eligibility under the federal Affordable Care Act (ACA) to adults earning less than 138% of the federal poverty level (FPL), the federal government funded 100% of the expansion population (also known as Group VIII). The ACA laid out a schedule for reducing the federal match rate (FMAP) from 2016 to 2020 to its current 90%-10% split between federal and state government.

As displayed above, the percentage of working-age Ohio adults (ages 19-64) with lower incomes who are uninsured dropped by 62% from 2012 to 2023 and the percentage who are enrolled in Medicaid increased by 61%.

As the U.S. Congress deliberates plans to reduce federal spending, including proposals to drastically cut funding for Medicaid, Gov. Mike DeWine included a provision in his state budget proposal that if the federal share of Medicaid funding is reduced, the Ohio Department of Medicaid “shall immediately discontinue all medical assistance for members of the [Medicaid expansion] group.”

This publication provides data and information on the status of Medicaid expansion in Ohio and includes a series of policy considerations for state and federal leaders. The publication page also includes a link to download the graphics from the snapshot for use in your work or to share on social media.

In the coming weeks, HPIO plans to release additional resources to assist policymakers who are evaluating options related to Medicaid coverage in Ohio. The Institute also recently released the latest edition of its biennial Ohio Medicaid Basics publication, which provides an overview of the Ohio Medicaid program, including eligibility, covered services, spending and recent policy changes.

On Thursday, HPIO President Amy Rohling McGee testified before the House Finance Committee to share the information in this policy considerations document.