Oregon Medicaid members receive climate control devices to help combat rising temperatures

SALEM, Ore. (KATU) — Nearly 1,000 Oregon Health Plan (OHP) members have received climate-control devices to help keep cool in the summer, the product of the nation’s first climate-related benefits tied to Medicaid coverage.

The Oregon Health Authority (OHA) says air conditioners made up 44% of the 939 units distributed from March 1 to May 31. Other devices include air filters, miniature refrigeration units for storing medications and portable power supplies to power medical equipment (such as ventilators during power outages).

OHA says it is working to deliver these devices to eligible OHP members before Oregon’s heat wave and wildfires begin.

According to OHA, over the past five years, Oregon has recorded its hottest summers on record, and climate models indicate that heat waves will likely continue to intensify.

Climate change benefits are part of the federally funded Oregon Health Plan.

Officials say the state will first expand eligibility for climate devices to people who are going through life transitions. This includes people who are currently or previously involved in Oregon’s child welfare system, people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness, people who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid, adults and youth recently discharged from Institutions for the Mentally Ill (IMDs) or released from prison within the past year.

OHA says that to be eligible, members cannot live in a group home or shelter and need access to consistent, safe power to use those facilities. Officials also note that climate resources must also be part of the member’s health or treatment needs.

OHP members interested in receiving climate devices should contact their coordinated care organization (CCO) to learn more. OHP Open Card members can call 1-888-834-4304 or email [email protected]. If an OHP member is unsure which plan or CCO they participate in, they can call OHA’s Customer Service Unit at 1-800-273-0557.