Oregonians flock to high-risk insurance 10

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--> --> Oregonians flock to high-risk insurance PORTLAND - Increasing numbers of Oregonians are seeking health coverage from the state's "high risk" insurance pool, raising questions about the sustainability of the program. Enrollment in the Oregon Medical Insurance Pool increased by 20 percent in the second quarter of this year compared with the same period a year ago. The numbers show that the private health insurance market has deteriorated in recent months, leaving people who need health care the most without insurance to pay for it. Oregon is one of 28 states that operate a high-risk pool. Oregon's program is open to consumers who've been turned down by private insurers and to certain workers who've lost employer-based coverage. Premiums paid by enrollees and assessments charged to insurance companies cover the costs of the risk pool. Email your... Technical questions & comments to: WebMaster Daily Tidings editorial comments & questions to: Editor Visit our other Oregon Newspapers... | Albany Democrat-Herald | Ashland Daily Tidings | Corvallis Gazette-Times | | Lebanon Express | Newport News-Times | Springfield News | Cottage Grove Sentinel | Ashland Daily Tidings 1661 Siskiyou Blvd. Ashland, OR 97520 Telephone 541-482-3456 © Copyright 2001 Lee Northwest Publishing