Complex Medical Help (CMH)

The Complex Medical Help program funded by the Ohio Department of Health (ODH) links individuals with special health care needs to a network of quality providers and helps individuals and their families obtain payment for needed services.

CMH’s mission is to assure, through the development and support of high quality, coordinated systems, that individuals with special health care needs and their families obtain comprehensive care and services that are family-centered, community- based and culturally sensitive.

Major components of the program include: funding services for the diagnosis and treatment of medically eligible conditions; collaborating with public health nurses and local health departments to assist in increasing access to care; supporting service coordination for individuals with selected diagnoses; and assisting individuals and their families to access and utilize appropriate sources of payment for services.

To find out more about the program, call Wood County Health Department at 419-352-8402, ext. 3246.

Which Children Are Eligible For CMH?

Those who are:

Age 0-21
Permanent residents of Ohio
Under the care of a CMH-approved doctor (M.D. or D.O.) and who have or may have a chronic medical condition

What Conditions Are Eligible For CMH?

Some of the eligible conditions include:

AIDS
Cancer
Cerebral palsy
Chronic lung disease
Cleft lip/palate
Congenital heart disease
Cystic fibrosis
Diabetes
Hearing loss
Hemophilia
Juvenile arthritis
Metabolic disorders
Scoliosis
Severe vision disorders
Sickle cell disease
Spina bifida

How Is A Child Enrolled In The CMH Program?

The child’s CMH-approved doctor (M.D. or D.O.) sends a Medical Application Form to CMH. Public health nurses can start the application process by referring families to CMH-approved doctors. The parent or legal guardian (or client, if 18 years of age or older) must sign the release of information and consent on the application form before CMH can act on the application.