By Tim Bonfield
The Cincinnati Enquirer

Hamilton County has rejected a request for an open bid process for the distribution of indigent care tax funds. For years, county voters have supported a tax levy that helps pay the costs of serving uninsured people at University Hospital and Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center. Last month, TriHealth, a hospital group that operates Good Samaritan and Bethesda North hospitals, said it also provides free care to the poor. Officials threatened to sue the county and set a Tuesday deadline.

In a letter sent Tuesday to TriHealth's attorney, assistant county prosecutor Christian Schaefer wrote that the county has no obligation to open the bidding.

TriHealth officials have begun considering legal options, said spokesman Joe Kelley.