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Some companies set up outdoor seating to maintain business during the pandemic, like the Bijou Cafe in downtown Portland. Others, citing harm to their business, didn't follow the state mask mandate and were fined. | SHUTTERSTOCK

Oregon Health Officials Lift Rule Requiring Masks In Crowds Outdoors

“This decision, which takes effect immediately, reflects the overall progress we have seen on the COVID-19 front here in Oregon,” Oregon Health Authority director Patrick Allen said.

Nov 23, 2021

SHUTTERSTOCK

OSU-Cascade's Physical Therapy Program Could Benefit Patients Regionwide

The doctorate of physical therapy program launched this fall at Oregon State University-Cascades is the first program of its kind at a public university in the state.

Nov 23, 2021

THE COMMONWEALTH FUND

Oregon A Top Performer Among States In Health Equity, Experts Say

Authors of a new report from The Commonwealth Fund say that while “dramatic” inequities persist in all 50 states, Oregon is doing better than most.

Nov 23, 2021
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Oregon State Hospital in Salem. | BEN BOTKIN/THE LUND REPORT

New Contempt Ruling Lodged Against Oregon State Hospital

A Tillamook County Judge rejected the state’s reasoning for why it won’t admit defendants deemed “guilty except for insanity,” leading to unconstitutional jail stays.

Nov 23, 2021
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SHUTTERSTOCK

Surprise Billing Rules Force Doctors To Accept Fair Prices, Official Says

A federal official is defending new HHS interim rules against criticism that they favor insurers.

Nov 23, 2021

COVID-19 TESTS./HANNAH NORMAN/KAISER HEALTH NEWS

COVID Antiviral Pills Require Access To Speedy And Accurate Tests

Experts say the success of the new pills hinge on whether high-risk patients will be able to get tested — and then treated — fast enough to make a difference.

Nov 23, 2021

Oregon State Hospital in Salem. | BEN BOTKIN/THE LUND REPORT

Lawmakers In Salem Consider Behavioral Health System’s Needs

The system faces immediate needs to retain workers during the pandemic amid long-term plans that may transform it.

Nov 18, 2021
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SHUTTERSTOCK

Officials Try To Avert Loss Of Health Care Coverage For Up To 300,000 Oregonians

With eligibility checks on Oregon Health Plan members expected to resume as soon as January, the state wants to slow down the process and increase outreach.

Nov 18, 2021
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SHUTTERSTOCK

Congressional Doctors Lead Bipartisan Revolt Over Policy On Surprise Medical Bills

Doctors and members of Congress are arguing that the rule for implementing the No Surprises Act favors insurers and doesn’t follow the spirit of the legislation.

Nov 18, 2021