Helping patients understand their health coverage options benefits both patients and providers. When patients have health coverage, they are more likely to get the care they need and less likely to delay treatment because of cost.
Health coverage can also help:
- Reduce unpaid medical bills
- Support patients' financial well-being
- Improve access to preventive and ongoing care
- Connect patients to regular sources of care and treatment
Providers, clinics, Tribal health programs, hospitals, behavioral health organizations, and community-based organizations all play an important role in helping people learn about available coverage options.
Help patients connect to health coverage
Patients may qualify for different types of coverage depending on their age, income, disability status, military service, household situation, or other factors.
If patients mention that they:
- Do not have insurance
- Recently lost coverage
- Are struggling to afford care
- Are confused about their options
- Are turning 65 or becoming eligible for Medicare
- Are veterans or military family members
- Need help understanding bills or prescription costs
Then you can help connect them to information and enrollment support for:
- Coverage through Explore Health
- Oregon Health Plan (OHP)
- Medicare
- VA health care and benefits
- Local enrollment assistance programs
Educational materials and outreach resources are available to help your staff share accurate information with patients.
Become an assister organization
Clinics and provider organizations may choose to become certified assister organizations.
Assister organizations receive training and support to help staff:
- Understand Oregon health coverage programs
- Provide application assistance
- Help patients understand available options
- Make referrals to certified enrollment experts when needed
Training may include information about:
- Explore Health coverage and financial help
- Oregon Health Plan eligibility and renewals
- Medicare basics and enrollment periods
- Coordination of benefits between programs
- Special enrollment opportunities
- Resources for Tribal communities and veterans
Becoming an assister organization can help patients access coverage more quickly and reduce barriers to care.
For more information about becoming an assister organization, contact the Oregon Health Insurance Marketplace community partner team.
Staff education and presentations
The Oregon Health Insurance Marketplace offers educational presentations and training for providers, clinics, and community organizations.
Presentations generally last 60 to 90 minutes and can help staff better understand:
- Health coverage programs in Oregon
- How patients apply for coverage
- Common eligibility pathways
- Financial assistance options
- Where to refer patients for enrollment help
These presentations can help front desk staff, care coordinators, billing staff, social workers, patient navigators, and providers feel more prepared to support patients with health coverage questions.
To request educational materials or schedule a presentation, submit a request form or contact the Marketplace outreach team.