COCAB member stories

By Tom McConnell

31 years ago, while living in another state, I was diagnosed with a chronic illness. It was subsequently determined that I had already been infected for ten years when I received that diagnosis. Reliable, easily accessible health care has been essential to my well-being since that time. 22 years ago, I relocated to Oregon. Declared disabled by then, I accessed the Oregon Health Plan and began my journey with CareOregon. There were no gaps in my care during the transition. My health is stable, and I have ready access to the medications that keep me alive and healthy. If I have any questions about my benefits, I call Customer Service. They have never let me down. Grateful to CareOregon.

By Rebecca Green

Our preschooler was having significant problems regulating his behavior in school and at home. At a loss, I called our insurer, CareOregon. The truly caring representative who answered stayed with me the whole time, listening carefully to the problem. After a little research, he returned to the call and referred me to a fabulous child therapist close to home. This no cost, high-quality program changed our parenting style, and we use the methods we learned throughout each day. We are so grateful to CareOregon.  

My name is Annette Parker. CareOregon health plan has helped me in so many ways.

The first time I paid attention to my health care, I had Regence Blue Cross of Oregon. This was back in 1989, when I had two small children. In 1995, CareOregon came along as an option and we all became members. I've been a member since. The care I got from CareOregon was better care - it was a lot different from Regency care, because I had more benefits and more choices. I am 64 years old and am still on Medicaid. In 2014, I became a member of the COCAB via a flyer I received in the mail. The experience has been great. It's both educated and influenced me on how health care systems work. I've learned about state regulations and federal dollars, and how they both work with health care. Because of the COCAB, I've become an advocate to push our legislators for more health care and Medicaid funding.

By Erin Volgeltantz

As a community partner, I get to help people access mental health and primary care services.

During COVID, I get to do this while keeping individuals safe by providing telemedicine. Getting new health insurance can be stressful, so I help CareOregon members understand and navigate their benefits so they can get the care they need. I also advocate for CareOregon members by working with their various providers to ensure each person receives whole health care.

During the coronavirus pandemic, I help new CareOregon members establish care with providers, so they can keep receiving their medications and health services and pick up right where they left off, without having to lose any progress they have made.