Evaluating the Oregon priority plan.

Abstract

The Oregon priority plan represents an innovative method of reforming its Medicaid program. It would replace the present system of limiting the number of people in the program with one that would, after setting priorities, limit treatment benefits. The strength of the plan is that it would provide all the poor with health care coverage; its potential drawback is that it might put expectant mothers and children at a disadvantage and possibility make some forms of needed care inaccessible to other groups as well. Despite the drawbacks and uncertainties of the priority plant, it deserves to be given a chance to prove itself.