|
We know what having health insurance coverage means for families: better access to health care, economic security, and peace of mind. That's the first thing I thought about when I read the news Tuesday about a new Gallup survey that found that Oregon has seen a 5.4 percent drop in the number of people who are uninsured since last year, to less than 15 percent overall. That number translates into thousands of families who no longer have to worry about accident or illness plunging the family into medical debt. It means tens of thousands of our neighbors are now covered for routine preventive care and will be more likely to see a health provider when they need to.
The news about a big drop in uninsured Oregonians is also great news for people who already had coverage. More people with health insurance means a drop in the amount of uncompensated care – one of the major drivers of health care costs.
My second thought when I read the news this week was: We are really doing this. The hard work is paying off and it is making a real difference for people in our state.
Hundreds of OHA and DHS employees have worked long hours over many months to do the work necessary to enroll Oregonians in coverage. I want to continue to acknowledge this even as I acknowledge that for many, the long hours will continue into November as we transition Medicaid enrollment to OHA. Thank you, again, for your service and your commitment to the vision of a healthy Oregon.
|
