Senators Urge Federal Officials to Provide $2.5 Million Grant for Medicaid-Funded School-Based Health Services in Oregon

Recently, Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley wrote to federal officials to urge them to consider awarding Oregon a planning grant of up to $2.5 million to improve school-based health services funded by Medicaid in the state. In their letter, the senators expressed support for the Oregon Health Authority’s grant application and emphasized the importance of providing technical assistance, training, and community engagement to support school districts and local education agencies.

The senators also commended Oregon for taking the initiative to expand the use of Medicaid to cover a wide range of health services in schools beyond those listed in individualized education programs and individualized service plans. They referenced CMS’s 2014 initiative that allowed states to seek Medicaid reimbursement for health services for all students enrolled in Medicaid.

The senators were optimistic about the potential impact of the grant funding on enhancing the provision of Medicaid-funded school-based health services in Oregon. They expressed confidence that the Oregon Health Authority would effectively utilize the grant funding to address existing gaps in the delivery of these services. The senators believe that this will lead to improved medical and behavioral health outcomes for students across the state.