Laugh? I Thought I'd Die...

Like most retired state employees, I participate in the health care programs offered to me by the Oregon Public Employees’ Benefit Board, or PEBB. Each October, during the so-called “Open Enrollment” period, we have the option of retaining or modifying our health insurance plans and coverage.


To facilitate coordination of our health care, Mare and I have used Providence Medical facilities for years. We know and trust our physicians and their staffs. Our medical records are maintained there. For the sake of continuity we’ve anticipated sustaining that relationship. The drive from St. Helens to Beaverton and back (round trip ~70 miles) affords a change of scenery and an opportunity to visit grandchildren. In short, the trip is very manageable for us. Even more importantly, the need for specialists requires us to travel because the services I need simply aren’t available in here in rural Columbia County.

This year PEBB offers three choices in medical plans. Two of the plans, appropriate for our needs, are administered through Providence Heath Plans - “PEBB State-wide” and “Providence Choice.” Like most plans these provide coverage for providers who are “In Network.” As might be expected, Providence clinics, hospitals, physicians, technicians, and pharmacies are “In Network.” Regardless then, of our choice between the two plans, we will be driving the same miles to access the same health care.

But here’s the rub. Since we live in Columbia County PEBB is forcing us into their “State-wide” plan. This is because we do not reside in Willamette, Clackamas, Multnomah, or Washington Counties, where the other plan is available. Consequently it will cost us almost two thousand dollars a year in additional insurance premiums. When the difference between plans in out-of-pocket costs for appointments and procedures is factored in this amount could easily grow by thousands of dollars a year.

So there it is. Same travel distance, same doctors, same hospital, same medicines, and same insurance company. But because PEBB gets to call the shots, our health costs – which approach $22,000 a year – will be thousands more than they need to be. And all because we live in Columbia County rather than one of the “favored” metro areas. If this isn’t urban versus rural discrimination I don’t know what is.

And if this isn’t an argument for the vilified “public option” in health insurance, just sit back and take it easy. Don’t worry about those “Death Squads” showing up at your door. Fact is they’re already here. They’re just dressed like accountants instead of executioners.