Senate Approves Bill Outlining Critical Services to Oregon Seniors

HB 3037 revises coverage under Oregon Project Independence.

Salem-News.com photo by Tim King

(SALEM, Ore.) - The Senate passed a bill this morning that specifies that services provided through the state’s Oregon Project Independence (OPI) program.

HB 3037 clarifies that eligible seniors in the program can receive in-home and community-based home care, health promotion services, information on immediate and long range options counseling, and transportation services through OPI.

“These clarifications will help more Oregon seniors take advantage of the full range of services available through Oregon Project Independence,” said Senator Joanne Verger (D-District 5), who carried the bill on the floor.

“OPI lets seniors stay in their homes and out of nursing facilities, respecting their independence and saving money for Oregon families and taxpayers.”

OPI serves individuals who are age 60 and older or individuals who have been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease or a related disorder.

The program provides in-home services to seniors who require the same level of care as people in nursing homes, but who typically do not qualify for Medicaid long-term care.

Individuals and their families share in the cost of these services on a sliding scale, based on the client’s percentage of income at the Federal Poverty Level.

“Oregon Project Independence allows seniors to receive in-home care, make cost-effective healthcare choices, access chronic disease management, and obtain transportation assistance,” said Senator Laurie Monnes Anderson (D-Gresham), chair of the Senate Health Care, Human Services, and Rural Health Policy Committee.

“These are critical, preventative services that will help Oregon seniors live out their life with dignity and on their own terms.”

OPI was established by the Legislature in 1975 to promote independent living and prevent premature institutionalization of seniors in nursing homes and assisted living facilities. HB 3037 was introduced in the House by Representative Jean Cowan (D-Newport). The bill now goes to the Governor for his approval.

Source: Senate Majority Caucus