Description of the Measure
Ballot Measure 44 modified the eligibility requirements then in effect for Oregon residents to participate in the Oregon Prescription Drug Program. The program intends to make prescription drugs available to participants at the lowest possible cost through negotiated price discounts. [2]
The current program at the time limited to Oregon residents who were: a) at least 54 years old; b) earned less than 185% of the federal poverty level (then $18,130 per individual); and c) have not had private prescription drug coverage for the six months preceding application to the program. [2]
Ballot Measure 44 expanded the Oregon Prescription Drug Program by removing those eligibility requirements so that all Oregonians without prescription drug coverage regardless of age or income may participate. Participation in the Oregon Prescription Drug Program is voluntary. Medicare Part D prescription plan enrollees would be eligible to join. [2]
Participants receive a card to use at participating pharmacies to purchase prescription drugs at the discounted price. The measure did not call for any state funding for implementation of the measure. [2]
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