Dr. Melanie Golombowski Reappointed to Women's Health Commission; Highlights Health Disparities and Medicaid Concerns

The Cuyahoga County Human Resources Appointment and Equity Committee approved Resolution 20250210, reappointing Dr. Melanie Golombowski, M.D., to the county Women’s Health Commission for a term from May 1, 2025, through April 30, 2028, under suspension of the second reading.

Brendan Doyle introduced the nomination and cited section 206.03 of the Cuyahoga County code and section 6.04 of the county charter. Dr. Golombowski, a family physician who works in federally qualified health centers in Cleveland, told the committee she has seen how health outcomes are tied to structural inequities. "In Cleveland, unfortunately, the disparities remain stark. There are racial disparities in our county where Black women are three times more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than white women," she said.

Dr. Golombowski described the commission’s areas of focus — physical health, mental health and targeted subcommittees — and stressed the role of Medicaid and telehealth in maintaining access to care. When asked about potential federal changes, she said federally qualified health centers rely on a combination of Medicaid revenue and federal grant funding and that significant changes to Medicaid funding would pose challenges for service delivery.

The committee moved and seconded the suspension of the second reading and approved the reappointment by voice vote. Members thanked the doctor for her service and encouraged continued collaboration between the commission and county agencies.