State Health Policy

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GOV. KATE BROWN/SHUTTERSTOCK

Gov. Kate Brown Lifts Extreme COVID-19 Restrictions In 15 Counties

With the pace of the increase in statewide COVID-19 hospitalizations slowing a tad, the 15 counties will be able to return to indoor dining on Friday.

May 4, 2021
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The Oregon State Capitol building in Salem. | BEN BOTKIN/THE LUND REPORT

Lawmakers Seek To Rein In Red Tape In Medical Insurance Claims

Legislators are considering a bill to try to eliminate some roadblocks that delay care like requiring patients to try less expensive treatments first.

May 3, 2021
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Gov. Kate Brown has faced blistering criticism over the COVID-19 vaccination rollout. | ABIGAIL DOLLINS/SALEM STATESMAN JOURNAL

Brown Again Urges Vaccination As State Clamps 'Extreme Risk' Restrictions On 15 Counties

The governor hopes a “solid majority” of Oregonians will be vaccinated by June, but she declines to put a number on that.

Apr 30, 2021

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SHUTTERSTOCK

Coordination -- Not Funds -- Missing From Oregon’s Mental Health Care System, Lawmakers Say

Speaking at an online forum, officials note that Oregon spends plenty of money -- $3.7 billion over two years -- but gets poor results.

Apr 19, 2021
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The Oregon Health Authority in Salem. | OREGON HEALTH AUTHORITY

Lawmakers Consider Bill That Would Make More Outbreak Data Public

Senate Bill 719 stems from a year of frequent denials by the Oregon Health Authority to release certain information related to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Apr 13, 2021
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The Legislature is in session. | BEN BOTKIN/THE LUND REPORT

Oregon House Passes Bill Regulating Nurse Staffing Levels For Pandemics

The bill would require nurses' input in setting staffing levels at hospitals during long-term emergencies.

Apr 9, 2021
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ALEX VISSER/THE LUND REPORT

Oregon Lawmakers Want To Improve Collection Of Racial, Ethnic Data On Patients

The pandemic has highlighted the need for better information about the provision of services to disadvantaged populations, advocates say.

Apr 9, 2021
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OREGON CAPITOL/BRYAN BRENNEMAN/CC BY 2.0

Lawmakers Explore 'Public Option' To Fill Gaps In Oregonians’ Health Insurance

The sponsor of a bill that proposes a public option for people who lack insurance wants it delayed so the state can complete another study.

Apr 1, 2021
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CENTERS FOR DISEASE CONTROL AND PREVENTION

Darkest Days In Pandemic Lie Ahead, Expert Warns Oregon Lawmakers

The House COVID-19 Subcommittee hears testimony from a nationwide expert about the danger of the B.1.1.7 variant from Britain.

Mar 29, 2021
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SHUTTERSTOCK

Medicaid Enrollment Surges To Nearly 1.3 Million -- 30% of Oregon’s Population 

State officials say extra federal money has covered the extra cost so far, but that it may not be sufficient in the second half of this year.

Mar 25, 2021
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