The pandemic has changed much of daily life. The Oregon House voted to make one of those changes permanent.
THE ISSUE: Residents of rural areas and marginalized communities face challenges in accessing healthcare.
THE BILL: House Bill 2508
WHAT IT DOES: Codifies administrative rules enacted earlier in the pandemic that requires insurers to cover reimbursements for telehealth services for physical health care, behavioral health and dental care.
WHY IT WAS PROPOSED: Telehealth or telemedicine visits became a routine part of how healthcare was delivered during the pandemic. Proponents of the bill say making it permanent could increase access.
HOW THE MARION/POLK DELEGATION VOTED:
State Rep. Brian Clem, D-Salem: Yes
State Rep. Paul Evans, D-Monmouth: Excused
State Rep. Raquel Moore-Green, R-Salem: Yes
State Rep. Mike Nearman, R-Independence: No
Sate Rep. Bill Post, R-Keizer: Yes
State Rep. Teresa Alonso León, D-Woodburn: Yes
WHAT HAPPENS NEXT: The bill moves to the Senate for consideration.
-Jake Thomas
