Today we show appreciation for the leadership of state legislators who recently raised timely concerns with the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) regarding the future of Oregon’s Quality Incentive Program (QIP). The critically important QIP has served as a “cornerstone of Oregon’s Medicaid quality strategy;” however, was subject to funding cuts of nearly 60% for the 2026 measurement year.
Last week, Senators and Representatives, including Sen. Lisa Reynolds and Reps. Rob Nosse, Ed Diehl, Hai Pham and Emily McIntire submitted public comment urging OHA to align QIP expectations with the program’s significantly reduced funding level for the 2026 measurement year. They conveyed their expectations to OHA that maintaining the same scope and complexity of metrics after deep funding reductions risk undermining the program’s effectiveness and putting “unrealistic expectations on Coordinated Care Organizations (CCOs) and their provider partners.”
We wrote earlier this year about the importance of Protecting Oregon’s Quality Incentive Program, which is earned funding that flows primarily to frontline primary care, pediatric and OBGYN providers to support prevention, chronic disease management, behavioral health integration and health equity efforts amongst Oregon’s most underserved populations across the state. At a time when access to care is already strained and provider capacity remains fragile, preserving the program’s focus and feasibility is critical.
While we remain concerned about the overall cuts to Oregon’s QIP, we are grateful for the thoughtful and constructive engagement shown by these legislative leaders. Their advocacy helps reinforce a shared goal of ensuring that Oregon’s quality initiatives continue to drive better outcomes while remaining realistic, targeted and sustainable for the providers who deliver care every day.
Read the full public comment letter here: https://www.oregon.gov/oha/OHPB/MtgDocs/4.%20Public%20Comment.pdf.
