Health Insurance Premiums Likely to Rise
Oregonians buying health insurance on the individual market can expect fewer choices and significantly higher premiums next year. Average premiums are expected to rise more than 21 percent, as PacificSource and Providence leave the market, leaving consumers with as many as four carriers. Health policy analysts urge Oregonians to compare plans during open enrollment, even if they’re satisfied with their current coverage. Oregon is also launching its new marketplace, Explore Health Oregon, and putting an additional 15-million dollars toward offsetting high claims costs. Enrollment in Affordable Care Act plans in Oregon fell about 15 percent last year as rising premiums continue to pressure household budgets.
Cold and Flu Season
Cold and flu season is arriving in the Florence area, with local health officials seeing an increase in respiratory illness, including COVID-19. Peace Harbor Medical Center has reinstated masking for staff as concerns over the spread continue. Statewide, the Oregon Health Authority says positive flu tests have increased to just over three percent. OHA says flu transmission remains relatively low, but warns that could change quickly. COVID activity also remains elevated across Oregon following a summer surge. Health officials recommend staying home when sick, frequent hand washing and considering a mask when respiratory illnesses are circulating.
Mapleton Water District Town Hall
Mapleton residents will have an opportunity Monday to discuss the future of the community’s aging drinking water system. The Mapleton Water District and Mapleton Community School will host a town hall from 6 to 8 p.m. in the high school gym. Engineering studies estimate about 25-million dollars is needed to rebuild the community’s 75-year-old water system. Speakers include State Representative Boomer Wright, Lane County Commission Chair Ryan Ceniga and Water District Board Chair Vanessa West. The discussion will focus on funding options, reliable water service and future economic development.
New Chief Executive for PeaceHealth
PeaceHealth has named Heather Wall as chief executive of its Oregon region after serving as interim CEO for the past six months. Wall will oversee operations at Sacred Heart Medical Center at RiverBend in Springfield, Peace Harbor Medical Center in Florence, Cottage Grove Community Medical Center, and associated clinics and specialty services. An Oregon native, Wall began her career as a neurology nurse with PeaceHealth and has spent more than two decades advancing through leadership roles. PeaceHealth Chief Transformation and Operating Officer Mark Korth praised her commitment to patient care, compassion, and accountability. Wall says she’s honored to serve patients, caregivers, and communities across the region and looks forward to helping meet the healthcare needs of Lane County and beyond.