The Oregon Senate has given its overwhelming last minute approval for a measure toward the implementation of the state’s online health insurance exchange marketplace, which is the heart of the Obama administration’s healthcare reform and will provide individuals and small businesses a place to shop for coverage. The vote on Monday was for a measure that was championed by Governor John Kitzhaber, and was passed by 55-5 for the rules that will govern the exchange. This will give the state the ability to build an insurance marketplace ahead of the…
Read MoreTag: Oregon medical insurance
Oregon Senate approves board nominees to oversee the state’s health insurance exchange
Oregon has advanced closer to establishing its own health insurance exchange as the state’s Senate approves of nine people to serve as board members for the exchange. The nine were chosen by Governor John Kitzhaber based upon their backgrounds in the health care, insurance and legislative fields. The state Senate unanimously approved the Governor’s nominees showing that the state’s Legislature is well on its way to forming an exchange that will help residents find affordable health insurance coverage. Governor Kitzhaber believes that part of what will make the exchange successful…
Read MoreOregon’s low cost health insurer takes a rate hike
Last week, Oregon-based Regence Blue Cross Blue shield was called upon to answer concerns from regulators regarding proposed rate increase of 22%. The state’s Insurance Division hosted the public meeting, the first of its kind in more than two decades. 200 Oregon residents attended the meeting to hear firsthand the rationalization behind the rate change proposal. They were also given the opportunity to make comment and question company officials regarding the issue. Regence provides insurance customers to 12% of the state’s population. The insurer often provides affordable coverage for those…
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