Proactive Filter Program for Medicaid Families
Cook County, IL
Project Overview
Cook County Health’s Medicaid Health Plan, CountyCare, launched an innovative filter voucher program to address lead exposure risks for low-income families with children under 12. Prompted by a call to action from U.S. Senators Dick Durbin and Tammy Duckworth, the program mailed educational materials and coupons for Brita Elite NSF/ANSI 53-certified water pitchers to nearly 90,000 households. Over 8,400 families redeemed their coupons, improving access to lead-free drinking water and contributing to a five-point increase in CountyCare’s lead screening HEDIS score.
Why It Works
This model capitalizes on existing public health and retail infrastructure, avoids logistical burden by using redeemable coupons, and empowers families to take immediate steps to reduce their lead exposure risk. It also elevates a retailer’s role as a public health partner—without requiring a complex new operation.
“I applaud CountyCare for being the first to step up and implement innovative strategies to prevent the threat of lead exposure for low-income children.”
– Senator Dick Durbin, October 2024
Project Timeline
March 2024:
Senators Durbin and Duckworth send letters calling for action on lead prevention.
Spring–Summer 2024:
CountyCare designs the program, collaborates with public health departments, and develops materials.
August–October 2024:
Approximately 90,000 vouchers and educational materials mailed to eligible families.
March 2025:
Program concludes after a four-month redemption window; 8,430 families redeemed vouchers.
Best Practices
Prioritize Medicaid-eligible families with children, who face elevated risks from lead exposure.
Integrate educational outreach with filter distribution to maximize awareness and adoption.
Use of vouchers instead of physical filter distribution can help reduce logistical challenges.
Coordinate across health and water departments to align efforts and avoid duplication of services.
