Oregon Medicaid beneficiaries face new federal eligibility rules

New federal Medicaid rules are expected to impact hundreds of thousands of beneficiaries in Oregon. Starting next year, the state estimates up to 600,000 Oregon Health Plan members could face new requirements to work, attend school, or volunteer for at least 80 hours a month to maintain their health coverage.

State officials estimate that as many as 200,000 Oregonians could lose their insurance coverage entirely due to these changes. The Oregon Health Authority is currently working to meet a federal September deadline to notify affected members, though detailed notices have not yet been distributed. There is ongoing tension between state and federal authorities regarding guidance that officials describe as late and confusing.