Project Access NOW was honored to participate in the June 9 Oregon Health Forum discussion, “The Medicaid Cliff: How can we cushion the fall for Oregon?” This conversation brought together leaders from across the state to explore the significant impacts federal Medicaid changes may have on Oregonians and the health care system.

With 1.4 million Oregonians currently enrolled in Medicaid, the anticipated federal policy changes could lead to widespread loss of coverage, reduced access to care, and increased strain on already overburdened providers. Conversations like this are critical to understanding what lies ahead and to identifying collaborative solutions.

We’re proud that Omar Al Rais, MBA, MBChB, Senior Vice President of Operations at Project Access NOW, contributed to this important panel alongside Rachel Calloway, MPP, RN, CPN – Chief of Staff, Medicaid Division, Oregon Health Authority; Julie Ibrahim, LPC – Chief Executive Officer, New Narrative; Jennifer Griffith, MS – Chief Executive Officer, One Community Health; Sarah Present, M.D. MPH – Health Officer, Clackamas County Public Health Division; Mindy Stadtlander, MPH – Chief Executive Officer, Health Share of Oregon; and moderator Evan Saulino, M.D., PHD – Clinical Director, Comagine Health.

Resources related to the event are linked below as well as Project Access NOW’s December report on the same topic:

Together, we can prepare for what’s ahead and work to ensure Oregonians continue to have access to what they need to get and stay healthy.