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Oregon Business Association

Health Policy

Oregon Business Association believes that comprehensive health care reform is necessary and desirable. Because of the reliance on federal programs, a comprehensive solution at the federal level is the preferred approach. However, Oregon can and should take steps to increase the number of insured within the state and contain costs for Oregon residents and businesses. There are human and workforce costs to inadequate coverage that must be recognized and addressed.

Increase Access

Oregon Business Association supports increased access to basic health care, including coverage for children and incrementally expanding OHP standard. State funds are needed in order to match the approximately $1 billion in federal funds available.

OBA will work with the legislature and stakeholders on a funding mechanism that is:

  • Equitable, sustainable, transparent and measurable
  • As broad based as possible
  • Protects against market disruptions
  • Contains the administrative costs of implementation

Create an Oregon Health Authority

Creation of a health authority, with operational authority over state purchasing, has the potential to streamline and make more efficient the existing delivery system among state agencies, as well as drive cost containment initiatives. The goal should not be to increase bureaucracy or regulation, but to create a more transparent and focused state role.

OBA supports creation of a health authority with the following principles:

  • Ensure measurable results
  • Leverage existing private sector efforts
  • Provide contractual and budget oversight
  • Reward innovative efforts to contain costs

Implement Cost Containment Initiatives

Health care costs are simply too high and any expansion of coverage without reducing the cost trend is unsustainable.

OBA believes cost containment is critical and supports the following actions:

  • Development and use of evidence based guidelines
  • Primary care, prevention and chronic disease management
  • Long-term prevention and population health
  • Establish Payment Reform and Workforce Councils
  • Alignment of incentives between plans, providers and patients to promote efficient health care decisions

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