By Kristy Tallman, July 3, 2024
SALEM, Ore. – Oregon has received federal approval to use Medicaid coverage for people leaving incarceration, beginning 90 days prior to their release. This initiative aims to ensure continuous access to physical and mental health care and reduce health inequities.
Currently, federal law prohibits federal Medicaid funds for healthcare services for inmates in public institutions. As a result, Oregon Health Plan (OHP) members have their Medicaid enrollment suspended upon incarceration, causing delays in access to essential healthcare services upon release.
“This approval is a critical step towards improving access to necessary care for individuals transitioning out of incarceration, including treatments for opioid use disorders,” stated Dave Baden, deputy director for Policy and Programs. “The Oregon Health Authority is committed to collaborating with carceral institutions and community partners to implement these services.”
The new Medicaid services will be available to individuals in state prisons, county jails, and youth correctional facilities, impacting over 20,000 eligible individuals across more than 60 institutions in Oregon.