Oregon Health Authority Receives Early Waiver Approval
Fast-tracked waiver approved before Federal Government administration change
(BEND, Ore.) Jan. 13, 2017— PacificSource Community Solutions is pleased to learn that the 1115 waiver renewal application submitted by the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) in August 2016, has been approved by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). Oregon’s existing five-year waiver—which authorizes transformation of the Oregon Health Plan (OHP) through coordinated care organizations (CCOs)—expires on June 12, 2017. This fast-tracked waiver, is valid from Jan. 12, 2017 through June 30, 2022.
The OHA contracts with 16 CCOs across the state to serve OHP members in a managed care model. Oregon’s efforts to transform Medicaid, bend the cost curve, and promote improved health outcomes through a partnership between the OHA and the CCOs require a waiver.
“PacificSource Community Solutions greatly appreciates the tireless work by the OHA and Gov. Brown to support the CCO model and the 1115 waiver,” said Ken Provencher, president/CEO of PacificSource. “This waiver promotes critical continuity of care for Oregonians during a time of uncertainty at the Federal level.”
The OHA had originally requested additional financial support from CMS, but this waiver does not come with enhanced funding for transformation efforts
“We remain committed to working with OHA during this next phase of CCO development and performance,” said Dan Stevens, PacificSource’s executive vice president of product management. “This waiver represents stability and an opportunity for CCOs to continue to innovate and work together with stakeholders to build healthier communities.”
About PacificSource Community Solutions
As part of the PacificSource family of companies, PacificSource Community Solutions serves Medicaid members through its coordinated care organizations in Central Oregon and the Columbia Gorge. Founded in 1933, PacificSource employs 900 people, serves more than 275,000 individuals, and has 3,900 employer clients throughout the Northwest. For more information visit PacificSource.com.
Contact:
Lee Dawson
Public Relations and Advertising Manager
PacificSource Health Plans
503-210-2554-Direct
PacificSource.com