What has changed? 
Oregon got approval to use federal funds in the Family
Health Insurance Assistance Program (FHIAP). That took effect on November 1, 2002. FHIAP
is a state program that helps uninsured citizens pay part of their
health insurance
premiums. This includes employer-sponsored insurance and individual health
insurance.
Why is Oregon making this change?
Oregon made this change because it could not meet demand for FHIAP within
its funding. FHIAP was paid for by the state's General Fund and tobacco
settlement money. Now the state gets matching federal
funds for FHIAP.
How will various expansion groups gain access to FHIAP subsidies?
FHIAP raised its income limit on November 1, 2002. The limit went
from 170% to 185% of the federal poverty level. FHIAP must balance
its funding
between
individual and employer-sponsored insurance. When it reaches this
goal, enrollment will then open to uninsured citizens whose only access
to
health coverage
is through individual health insurance.
Some people who apply for Medicaid must get coverage through FHIAP.
This applies only to adults who qualify for the OHP Standard
benefit package and who have access to employer-sponsored health
insurance.
People who apply for Medicaid and qualify for the OHP Plus
benefit package have choice. They can enroll in FHIAP or get
benefits through
OHP Plus.
How many more people will FHIAP cover based on this change?
FHIAP will add about
19,000 people who have employer-sponsored coverage. It will also add about
5,000-6,000 people who have
individual insurance.
FHIAP will not pay for coverage that does not meet its
benefit and cost-sharing benchmarks.
How can I apply for FHIAP?
FHIAP has its own application
form and process. You can learn how to apply by visiting the FHIAP
Web site or calling FHIAP. The phone
number
is 1-888-564-9669.
How much will this change to FHIAP cost taxpayers?
This change to FHIAP
will cost taxpayers no more than the former design. FHIAP will open and close
its enrollment to
make sure the
expansion does not increase the state's
budget. If FHIAP finds that expansion costs more than budgeted, it will close
enrollment. Enrollment will remain
closed
for as long as needed to bring
costs in line with the budget.
