Health Care Reform for
Individuals & Families

The average cost for premiums has risen 73%  since 2000 and many Oregonians have seen their level of coverage decrease or disappear. 

The Healthy Oregon Act continues the reform efforts that have been ongoing since 2005 by creating a public board, the Oregon Health Trust Board, to work with state agencies and gather public input on key reform concepts, finalize the concepts into the comprehensive plan and present it as legislation for consideration by the 2009 Legislature.

Sharing Responsibility, Sharing Risks

The Healthy Oregon Act sets up the Oregon Health Fund which, upon adoption by the 2009 Legislature, will allow businesses and individuals to join and “pool” their health care dollars to increase their buying power and share the risks across a larger spectrum. 

Oregonians who join will receive an Oregon Health Card that provides an affordable essential benefits package through an insurance provider of their choice and can choose their doctors and hospitals.

The Healthy Oregon Act will propose ways to place a renewed focus on preventative and primary care by setting criteria for insurers to become Accountable Health Plans.  It can also encourage wellness with incentives that encourage healthy behaviors. 

Benefits of Fixing Health Care for Individuals and Families

• Lower costs and affordable coverage based on ability to pay
• No denial for pre-existing conditions
• Portable coverage if you lose or change jobs
• Increased transparency and easier cost comparison for all health services
• Group plan security for individuals, families and self-employed
• Renewed focus on primary and preventative care

Frequently Asked Questions from Individuals and Families

We already have private health insurance, do we have to join?

No.  But you, or your employer, might want to join for the affordable essential benefits package and perhaps "buy up" as an individual or "negotiate up" with your employer for additional benefits.

Will we still be able to see our family physician?

Yes.  We expect the Oregon Health Card will be widely accepted because at least 600,000 Oregonians will be carrying one and because of the plan's focus on fair and fast reimbursements for providers.

What will the essential benefits plan look like?

After the Healthy Oregon Act passes, a citizen board and sub-committees will begin to gather public input and priorities.  One thing is certain: a renewed focus on primary and preventative care is necessary to lower costs.  Dental, vision and mental health are also discussed in the bill.

How much will it cost me?

The essential benefits package will be established over the next year with public input.  The price will be based on ability to pay with everyone having shared responsibility.

Our child has a pre-existing condition, will she be covered?

Yes. The legislation creates the Oregon Health Fund to “pool” health dollars to leverage better rates and share the risks of illness and injury.  Because of the projected number of people who would join the pool, pre-existing conditions will be covered.

I am a member of a union that provides health insurance, how does this affect me?

The legislation exempt employers and union trusts that are already providing adequate health coverage unless they choose to join.

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