Oregon Public Broadcasting

Oregonians shouldn’t expect universal health care any time soon.  A panel created by the Oregon Legislature is calling for a phased-in approach.

That’s according to a draft report issued Thursday.  Salem correspondent Chris Lehman reports.

The Oregon Health Fund Board was created by the 2007 Legislature to explore ways to increase health coverage for Oregonians.

The panel is examining things like access, affordability and quality of coverage.

In a 78-page draft report, the board urges the 2009 Legislature to expand health coverage for the state’s children, using taxes on health care providers.  But Health Fund Board member Charles Hoffman, a Baker City doctor, says that’s just the first step.

Charles Hoffman:  “Our goal is that every Oregonian have access to affective, affordable health care.  It’s going to take us a little while to get there.”

Up to a decade, according to the draft report.  The Health Fund Board is holding a series of hearings around the state later this month to see what the public thinks about the plan.