Additional Long-Term Planning Resources for Seniors

What is the Medicaid program in Oregon?

Oregon’s Medicaid program is a joint state and federal health care program for low-income individuals of all ages, and Medicaid is jointly funded by both. Besides nursing home care, assisted living and adult foster care, Oregon Medicaid also offers non-medical support services to help older adults with ongoing care needs continue living at home or with family.

An elderly couple with white hair and glasses sit on a couch, smiling as they look at a laptop screen. The woman is wearing a white shirt, and the man is in a light blue shirt. Sunlight filters through a window in the background.

What is the Medicaid application process in Oregon?

To apply for the Oregon Health Plan (OHP), which is Oregon’s Medicaid program, there are several methods available. You can visit your local OHP office in person, apply online at ONE.Oregon.gov or call 1-800-699-9075 (TTY 711) to apply over the phone. For those seeking long-term care benefits, using a Certified Medicaid Planner (800-543-0530) is recommended as the most effective approach.

When applying, you’ll need to provide basic information such as your full name, Social Security number, date of birth, current address and mailing address if different. You’ll also be asked about trusts and any asset gifts made in the past 60 months. If married, similar information for your spouse is required.

After initiating the application, you’ll receive an OHP application number, which is important to keep for future reference. Within five to seven days, a financial caseworker will contact you to schedule an appointment for a more detailed financial assessment. This may involve completing a questionnaire during the call or scheduling a follow-up appointment.

Following the phone assessment, you’ll receive a formal application for signatures and requests for banking and financial information. It’s crucial to return the signed application and requested documents within the 15-day deadline set by OHP caseworkers to avoid application denial.

The application process can take up to 45 days for eligibility determination. To expedite the process and ensure accuracy, it’s advisable to have all necessary documentation ready, including proof of income, Social Security cards, photo identification and information about any other medical insurance you may have.