High temperatures can pose serious risks, particularly for individuals with chronic medical conditions. In such cases, conventional methods of preventing heat-related illnesses may not suffice, and seeking refuge at cooling centers may not be feasible. An air conditioning unit is a great solution.
The program offers the following benefits to individuals who are currently eligible or have recently become eligible for medical assistance:
Air conditioning units will be provided to individuals who are at the highest risk of heat-related illnesses during extreme heat events.
Air filtration devices will be distributed to individuals who are most vulnerable to health issues caused by wildfire smoke.
This year, approximately 3,000 AC units and 4,700 air filtration devices will be distributed through the program.
The distribution of AC units will commence once the Governor declares a state of emergency due to extreme heat. The distribution of air filtration devices will begin in June 2023. The Oregon Health Authority (OHA) will update the information on their website when the supply of these devices runs out.
The creation of this program was directed by Section 7 of Senate Bill 1536 (2022). Additionally, Section 1 of the bill revised state law to allow tenants to have air cooling devices in their homes as long as they do not pose any safety hazards.
Who is eligible for an AC unit?
To be eligible for an AC unit, individuals must meet the following criteria:
They should not already have a cooling device.
They must qualify for medical assistance through OHA, the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS), Medicare, or have received these services within the past 12 months.
They should be at risk of heat-related illness. This includes individuals who are 65 years or older, medically fragile children, or those with a disability or health condition such as diabetes, heart disease, hypertension, obesity, or a respiratory disease that makes them vulnerable to heat events.
Who is eligible for an air filtration device?
To be eligible for an air filtration device, individuals must meet the following criteria:
They should not already have an air filtration device.
They must reside in Deschutes, Douglas, Jackson, Josephine, East Lane, Klamath, or Lake County.
They must qualify for medical assistance through OHA, ODHS, Medicare, or have received these services within the past 12 months.
They should be at risk of health issues due to wildfire smoke. This includes individuals who are 65 years or older, medically fragile children, or those with a disability or health condition such as diabetes, heart disease, hypertension, obesity, or a respiratory disease that makes them vulnerable to wildfire smoke.
There is no application process to obtain an air conditioner or air filtration device. If individuals receive support from the ODHS Office of Developmental Disabilities Services (ODDS) or Office of Aging and People with Disabilities (APD), ODHS will contact them if they qualify for either device and one is available. Eligibility reviews for ODHS recipients and referrals for AC units and air filtration devices will begin on May 20, 2023, conducted by ODHS and OHA.
Are there other resources for AC units or air filtration devices?
Oregon Health Plan (OHP) members who do not receive support from APD or ODDS can contact their coordinated care organization (CCO) to inquire about the availability of AC units or air filtration devices as flexible services.
Some cities and counties, such as the City of Portland and Multnomah County, have their own programs with limited supplies. It is advisable to check with your specific city or county to see if they offer any such programs.
Need help? Call Health Plans in Oregon: 503-928-6918. Our assistance is at no cost to you.
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