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Frequently Asked Questions
Introduction to page will go here.
Page Index
About Universal, Single-Payer
Please note: These FAQs are adapted from those used for Measure 23. We are currently evaluating Measure 23 and will be creating a new proposal for universal, single-payer health care to put on the ballot in 2008. However these questions and answers provide a good idea about how a universal, single-payer system might work.
Will universal health care cost more than managed care?
After a plan is passed into law, total health care costs will be reduced for nearly all people. Eliminating the costs incurred for insurance premiums, co-payments, prescription medications, deductibles, and all other health care costs, most people will spend less than they do now.
Will I be able to choose my own doctor?
You can see any state licensed, certified, or registered health care practitioner, and you can change providers if you are not satisfied.
How does your plan affect Medicare?
People will no longer pay $50 per month for Medicare Part B. In addition, benefits included in the initiative go far beyond what Medicare covers, e.g. prescriptions, dental, vision, and long-term care services, with no co-pays or deductibles. Federal Medicare funds will be pooled with other funds in the dedicated health care fund created by a universal, single-payer health care plan.
Who decides what is medically necessary?
Each health care practitioner will decide what diagnostic and therapeutic procedures are necessary for participants under his/her care. The Board of Directors will define the scope of services under each health service category listed in the initiative.
Will a physician's referral be required to see a specialist?
No. Participants may receive health services from any health care practitioner of their choice who is licensed, certified, or registered in this state.
I have good health insurance through my employer and it doesn't cost me anything. Why would I want to change?
Actually, your insurance is costing you something. Even if your employer pays the premiums, that is money you will never see in your pay check. Additionally, all employers are recovering the premiums through the cost of goods and services that are passed on to all Americans. Would you still have health insurance if you lost your job or when you retire? Are your benefits as good as they were five years ago, or is your insurance company reducing benefits or increasing co-pays to reduce their costs?
Will I be covered when traveling out of state?
Yes.
Can employers pay the personal income tax dedicated to health care?
Yes, employers may pay employees' income tax dedicated to health care and such payment is deductible from the employer's income for state income tax purposes.
How does the initiative impact small businesses?
Both the principals and employees of small businesses will be provided with comprehensive health care coverage at a reasonable cost, with only minimal paperwork and administrative expenses.
Won't I pay more?
Most people will actually pay less for health care. This tax replaces health insurance premiums, co-payments, deductibles, and out-of-pocket expenses for such items as prescription drugs, alternative care, and mental health.
Won't this cost too much?
No — It will actually cost less. We already spend enough money on health care to cover everyone. Nine studies found that a publicly funded system can provide quality care for everyone for no more money than our current system costs. How? Primarily by drastically reducing the 25% of health care expenditures that are currently spent for insurance companies’ advertising, paperwork, shareholder profits, CEO salaries, etc., as well as providers’ burdensome paperwork. Every other industrialized nation provides universal health care. We are spending more and getting less.
I am retired and I have health insurance through my former employer. How will the initiative affect me?
Provided that the contract for your health insurance was entered into prior to implementation of a universal, single-payer health care system, you may claim a credit against the state income taxes that you would otherwise have to pay.
Is this a for-profit plan?
No. The Plan will be operated by a nonprofit, public corporation. (Oregon Health Sciences University is a nonprofit, public corporation.) Board members will be accountable to voters, not stockholders.
What happens to my long-term care insurance?
Once this plan is implemented, the comprehensive benefits of universal health care include long-term care.
Will I continue to pay out-of-pocket for alternative health care?
No. You will have the choice to go to any state licensed, certified or registered provider through this initiative with no co-pays or deductibles.
Will my personal income tax for health care be deductible on my federal income tax?
Yes.
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About Health Care for ALL – Oregon
Where can I sign up for your health plan?
We are not a health insurance provider. We are a group of citizens working for a change in the way we receive health care in the state of Oregon. If you would like to help, please consider donating or volunteering.
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About health care in Oregon
Where can I get more information about the Oregon Health Plan?
Please visit their
website.
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