John H. Stroger Jr. Hospital, a facility under Cook County Health, is pictured in this file photo.

The end to state and federal public health emergencies for COVID-19 ended May 11, and their sunset also means changes for Cook County Health.  

Medicaid members must renew their coverage with the state, masks will become optional in hospitals and COVID-19 tests and vaccinations may no longer be free for some. But the county health and hospitals system remains steadfast on providing care regardless of ability to pay.