Affordable Health Care Insurance

By Isaac Graham · The Mainstream
Published October 19, 2011

A statewide organization called Oregon Healthy Kids is now offering no-cost or low-cost health insurance for Oregon residents under age 19 thanks to an expansion of the Oregon Health Plan.

Successful applicants will be eligible for comprehensive coverage of medical, dental, vision, prescriptions and many other health expenses without having to pay a deductible.

Although the Oregon Health Plan expanded in February, 2010 to include this low cost insurance through Oregon Healthy Kids, not all Oregonians are aware of the assistance that is available.

"This is the largest expansion of the Oregon Health Plan since its inception in the 1980's" says Penny McCue of UCAN. UCAN is in close affiliation with the organization.  The program is constantly improving according to McCue, as it strives to make the insurance plans more viable for families with uninsured children.

The opportunities provided by this program are extensive. For example, a family of four that makes less than $45,000 per year could potentially obtain insurance for all children under 19 absolutely free of charge.  A family of four making between $45,000 and $67,000 could expect to insure all children for an average of $60 per month.

Insurance is also available for students under the age of 19 who are living independently.

McCue calls Oregon Healthy Kids a “very generous organization.”

Families can apply by contacting Penny McCue at UCAN and setting up an appointment.  The application process is simple and requires approximately 40 minutes.  UCAN staff are also available to fill out applications for families who wish to apply. Children must have been uninsured for at least two months before applying unless the child has a serious health condition or is uninsured due to job loss.

More information can be obtained by contacting Penny McCue at UCAN (541-492-3907) or by visiting www.ucancap.org or www.oregonhealthykids.gov.