PORTLAND, Ore. - Oregon Health & Science University is urging Oregon's congressional delegation to support health care reform legislation that would expand coverage to millions of Americans.
In letters to Oregon's five congressmen, OHSU leaders urged passage of HR 3590 (read the full text) and companion legislation to make necessary changes to the health bill passed earlier by the Senate.
"Our support for this bill stems from our deep-seated commitment to health care as a core part of the OHSU mission," said OHSU President Joe Robertson. "While we don't agree with every provision in this legislation, we believe it is a key step toward advancing the health and health care of our nation through its expansion of coverage for millions of Americans."
Robertson also noted efforts made by Oregon's delegation, to increase Medicare payments to providers in traditionally low-cost states, as a positive step.
As the state's public - and only - academic health center, OHSU is a major provider of safety net health care for Oregonians. OHSU provided $81 million in uncompensated health care services in 2009, and operates more than 200 community outreach programs to bring health and education services to every Oregon county.
OHSU has developed its Eight Principles for Health Care Reform, and supported the Oregon Legislature's recent extension of health care coverage to Oregon children.
Robertson serves on the Oregon Health Policy Board, and Oregon political leaders frequently seek insight on health issues from the OHSU faculty.
UPDATE: All four Oregon Democratic Congressman are voting yes for the federal health care bill, after three changed their votes from undecided Saturday following changes to the bill. The one Republican Congressman from Oregon is voting no.
Related stories:
Do you have a story to tell? Become a community blogger!
$296,000
Courtesy of: Windemere Real Estate
|
$415,000
Courtesy of: Windermere C&C RGI
|
