Essential Health Benefits

June 25, 2012— A 19-member, governor-appointed workgroup made up largely of hospital and insurance representatives has selected PacificSource’s small group plan as the state’s essential health benefits package.Governor Kitzhaber must either accept the recommendation, or ask that a different plan be chosen by September 30. Otherwise, the federal government will make that decision.

December 14, 2011 - Recognizing an absence of the patient voice in the essential benefits debate, patient advocate groups representing those who live with chronic disease and disability have joined together to form an “I am Essential” campaign. The campaign aims to ensure that every American has access to the quality comprehensive and affordable health care as the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) considers its recommendations for the nation’s Essential Health Benefits package.