New Health Coverage Benefit “Bridge” Now Available in Oregon

A federal grant of $2.7 million could potentially bring significant improvements to north downtown Salem. This funding has the potential to transform the area in various ways, benefiting the local community.

Oregonians who earn more than the traditional income limits for the state’s Medicaid program can now access coverage through OHP Bridge. This new coverage includes dental, eye, and health insurance for adults who fall between 138% and 200% of the federal poverty level. This means individuals with incomes between $20,784 and $30,120, or households of four with incomes between $43,056 and $62,400, are now eligible.

Oregon is the third state to offer a basic health program for individuals slightly above Medicaid eligibility limits. It is the only state to provide a no-cost program with no premiums, co-payments, coinsurance, or deductibles. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services approved Oregon’s plan for this program, which was developed by a task force created under House Bill 4035.

The program is expected to cover around 100,000 individuals, funded mostly by the federal government with Oregon covering operational costs. This initiative aims to ensure that all Oregonians have access to comprehensive health care services, including physical, behavioral, reproductive, and dental health care.

OHA Director Sejal Hathi expressed excitement about the launch of OHP Bridge, emphasizing its role in helping people maintain health insurance coverage. The transition to this new program is expected to involve 55,000 individuals currently under OHP Plus and 35,000 individuals with private health plans.

Oregonians can now apply for OHP Bridge coverage through the ONE system or HealthCare.gov. This new program marks an important milestone in Oregon’s ongoing efforts to provide quality, affordable health care to all its residents.