Frequently asked Questions
What is (B)CMH?
(B)CMH is a tax supported health care program of the Ohio Department of Health. The program links families with services to diagnose a potential handicapping condition (Diagnostic Program) and assists with ongoing services for children with an eligible medical need (Treatment Program).
Who Qualifies for (B)CMH?
Ages 0 – 21
Permanent residents of Ohio
Under the care of a (B)CMH – approved doctor.
Eligible Medical Condition
Diagnostic Program*– Can receive services to rule out or diagnose a special medical need or establish a plan of treatment , including:
Tests and x-rays
Visits to (B)CMH-approved doctors
Up to 5 days in the hospital
Public Health nursing services
Therapy evaluations
* No financial guideline restrictions with diagnostic program.
Treatment Program**- Links treatment services to those with a medically eligible condition, including:
Tests and x-rays
Doctor visits
Prescription Medications
Therapies
Medical equipment and supplies
Surgeries and hospitalizations
Service Coordination
Public Health Nurse services
Hearing Aids
**Financial eligibility restrictions for treatment program.
What medical needs qualify for (B)CMH?
Some examples of eligible conditions are:
Diabetes
Hearing Loss
Chronic lung Disease
Heart Defects
Cancer
AIDS
Cystic Fibrosis
Hemophilia
Severe Vision Problems
Cerebral Palsy
Scoliosis
Juvenile Arthritis
Seizure Disorders
Spina Bifida
Metabolic Disorders
Cleft lippalate
When does (B)CMH Pay?
(B)CMH requires other available resources, such as Medicaid or private insurance, pay first. (B)CMH may supplement insurance when there is inadequate coverage, such as exclusions to pre-existing conditions or large deductibles.
How do I apply?
First, make a contact to one of the following:
1. A (B)CMH healthcare provider (physician). This is the quickest method.
2. Public Health Nurse at the Mercer County Health District, Lisa Vondrell 419-586-3251 Ext. 6-1468.
3. The (B)CMH office at the Ohio Department of Health 1-800-755-4769.
Next, you may be asked to apply for Healthy Start or Medicaid.
Forms for BCMH can be found HERE. Completed applications are to be sent to Mercer County Job and Family services, 220 W. Livingston St., Celina Ohio 45822 phone:419-586-5106.
Visit the Facebook Group “Ohio Children with Medical Handicaps (CMH)” for updates.
Visit the Ohio Department of Health CMH Page for more information.
