Abstract:
Creating equitable access to health services is a key aim for U.S. health policy. In Oregon, House Bill 3650, which established Coordinated Care Organizations (CCO), seeks to eliminate racial and ethnic disparities in the Oregon Health Plan (OHP). Documented racial and ethnic disparities exist among OHP recipients in areas of health care utilization and patient experience. American Indian and Black children had lower rates of preventive services than Whites, American Indians had higher rates of potentially avoidable hospitalizations, and Latinos reported lower ratings of courteouse office staff and quick care than Whites. These findings are concerning because any issues exacerbated by upcoming changes to Medicaid may disproportionately affect these vulnerable populations.