Category Healthcare
Oregon Legislature passes bill expanding options to treat allergic reactions in schools
A Lake Oswego teen's advocacy prompted state lawmakers to unanimously approve a law giving schools the ability to stock epinephrine in forms like nasal spray - not just EpiPens.
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Downtown Salem drop-in center for at-risk youth closes after funding cuts
The Salem Drop, a youth drop-in center offering a safe after-school space and access mental health support and other resources closed mid-February due to funding cuts. Its primary funder, health insurer PacificSource, pointed to financial challenges as the reason for the decision.
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After slow fall Covid shot rollout, Oregon moves to bolster public health officials’ authority
Senate Bill 1598, which cleared the Senate in a party-line vote Thursday, Feb. 19, would empower Oregon’s public health officer to issue standing orders for vaccines in alignment with “evidence-based guidance” and recommendations from professional medical organizations. The bill would require health insurers to cover those recommended vaccines.
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Salem Health and Santiam Hospital file with state to merge
The state is considering whether to approve a merger between Salem Health and Santiam Hospital & Clinics. Hospital leaders hope the state will green light the deal by the fall.
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COLUMN: Don’t pay too high a premium for Medicare Part B
Jim Sellers, former Oregon journalist and state agency employee, writes a regular column to help thousands in Salem deal with the confusing world of Medicare and federal benefits. He's available to answer your questions.
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OHSU study finds Medicaid networks rife with ‘ghost’ providers
Many health care providers listed as part of the networks serving lower-income people don't actually serve those people, contributing to care shortages and delays.
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Hospitals, local leaders plan to expand mobile care to improve health care access in Marion and Polk
Local health care leaders have over 90 action items for improving access to health care, housing stability, mental health and substance abuse services in Marion and Polk counties over the next five years.
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Fewer immigrants are seeking Oregon health care benefits under Trump
Data privacy concerns and increasing immigration enforcement are impacting enrollment in Healthier Oregon, a state program that provides Medicaid-like coverage to refugees, permanent residents and visa holders.
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COLUMN: Fewer Medicare Advantage plans offered in Marion, Polk counties
Jim Sellers, former Oregon journalist and state agency employee, writes a regular column to help thousands in Salem deal with the confusing world of Medicare and federal benefits. He's available to answer your questions.
To comment on this story, use the form at the end of the report.