Oregon has expanded its free health insurance called Healthier Oregon Program to cover all residents who qualify, irrespective of their immigration status.
It is estimated that seven out of ten people will retain their benefits under the Healthier Oregon Program, the state’s version of Medicaid. (Photo: SECAD)
Healthier Oregon Program Expands Healthcare Access for All
The expansion of the Healthier Oregon Program, which took effect on July 1 builds upon a Medicaid-type program that was introduced last year to cater to immigrants who are not qualified for the Oregon Health Plan due to their immigration status.
According to a published article, funded by a $100 million allocation by the Legislature in 2021, the Healthier Oregon Program aimed to bridge the gap in healthcare coverage for vulnerable populations.
State officials have already informed around 25,000 people that they will no longer be covered by Medicaid. However, it is estimated that seven out of ten people will retain their benefits under the Healthier Oregon Program, the state’s version of Medicaid.
The Oregon Health Authority estimates that approximately 55,000 people will now benefit from the expanded Healthier Oregon Program. Officials believe that by providing comprehensive health coverage to more residents, the state will witness reduced health costs and risks for the entire community.
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Who Qualifies for the Healthier Oregon Program?
To qualify for the Healthier Oregon Program, most eligible residents can earn up to 138% of the federal poverty level, approximately $20,000 a year for an individual or about $41,500 for a family of four.
The Healthier Oregon Program initially provided coverage to individuals aged 19-24 and 55 and older who met specific low-income and other qualifications.
Moreover, Oregon has expanded benefits to include individuals earning up to about $29,000 a year or a family of four earning up to $60,000 a year, aiming to reduce the population where individuals frequently shift between being eligible and ineligible based on their income.
This expansion is expected to add around 25,000 more people to the program.
This month’s Healthier Oregon Program expansion to include all qualifying immigrants follows a substantial two-year allocation of $460 million for the program during the recently concluded legislative session.
As part of the transition, around 40,000 immigrants who previously received state-funded emergency health coverage were seamlessly moved to the Healthier Oregon program on July 1.
Overall, Oregon’s expansion of free health insurance coverage for low-income residents, regardless of their immigration status, showcases the state’s commitment to ensuring healthcare coverage for all its citizens.
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