Idaho, Iowa Appoint New Medicaid Leaders Amid Federal Program Changes

Idaho Governor Brad Little has appointed Juliet Charron, the state's top Medicaid official, to lead the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare starting September 15, 2025, as the agency faces federal cuts and new cost-saving measures, including work requirements and privatization of benefits. In Iowa, Lee Grossman, a native with over 14 years of experience including serving as Medicaid Director in Wyoming, has been named the new Director of Iowa Medicaid, beginning in early September 2025. Grossman’s appointment comes amid implementation of federal work requirements and eligibility changes under President Donald Trump's administration, with Iowa Medicaid covering more than 700,000 low-income and disabled residents. Meanwhile, Clinton County, Ohio, has appointed Monica Wood as the new health commissioner to promote public health, disease prevention, and community resilience, supported by a leadership team focused on nursing, nutrition, environmental health, and emergency preparedness. These leadership changes reflect ongoing adjustments and strategic efforts to manage public health programs amid evolving federal policies and local community needs.