Frequently Asked Questions about the Family Health Insurance Assistance Program Expansion

General FAQs: OHP • FHIAP

What has changed?

Why is Oregon making this change?

How will various expansion groups gain access to FHIAP subsidies?

How many more people will FHIAP cover based on this change?

How can I apply for FHIAP?

How much will this change to FHIAP cost taxpayers?

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Q. What has changed?

A. Oregon got approval to use federal funds in the Family Health Insurance Assistance Program (FHIAP). That took effect on Nov. 1, 2002. FHIAP is a state program that helps uninsured citizens pay part of their health insurance premiums. This includes employer-sponsored insurance and individual health insurance.

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Q. Why is Oregon making this change?

A. Oregon made this change because it could not meet demand for FHIAP within its funding. FHIAP was paid for by the state's general fund and tobacco settlement money. Now the state gets matching federal funds for FHIAP.

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Q. How will various expansion groups gain access to FHIAP subsidies?

A. FHIAP raised its income limit on Nov. 1, 2002. The limit went from 170% to 185% of the federal poverty level. FHIAP must balance its funding between individual and employer-sponsored insurance. When it reaches this goal, enrollment will then open to uninsured citizens whose only access to health coverage is through individual health insurance.

Some people who apply for Medicaid must get coverage through FHIAP. This applies only to adults who qualify for the OHP Standard benefit package and who have access to employer-sponsored health insurance.

People who apply for Medicaid and qualify for the OHP Plus benefit package have choice. They can enroll in FHIAP or get benefits through OHP Plus.

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Q. How many more people will FHIAP cover based on this change?

A. FHIAP will add about 19,000 people who have employer-sponsored coverage. It will also add about 5,000-6,000 people who have individual insurance. FHIAP will not pay for coverage that does not meet its benefit and cost-sharing benchmarks.

Q. How can I apply for FHIAP?

A. FHIAP has its own application form and process. You can learn how to apply by visiting the FHIAP Web site or calling FHIAP. The phone number is 1-888-564-9669.

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Q. How much will this change to FHIAP cost taxpayers?

A. This change to FHIAP will cost taxpayers no more than the former design. FHIAP will open and close its enrollment to make sure the expansion does not increase the state's budget. If FHIAP finds that expansion costs more than budgeted, it will close enrollment. Enrollment will remain closed for as long as needed to bring costs in line with the budget.

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