ABSTRACT
Priority setting in Oregon grew out of the funding problems of the public programme Medicaid, which offers healthcare to the poor. Medicaid was created by the federal government, but participation is voluntary and each state administrates its own programme. The Oregon plan overtaken by Clinton's far-reaching health security programme, since that envisages the incorporation of Medicaid within the larger framework. If that proposal is passed, all patients, including the poor, would be entitled to the same package of benefits, including some services not covered in the Oregon plan. Many people working for small businesses and individuals with high health risks had no health insurance. In any event, the Oregon Health Commission has been saddled with a major new task that could strain its resources. Under an Act passed in 1993, it is now expected to set clinical guidelines for line items.
