Prioritization of health services. The Oregon Basic Health Services Act and its implications for dermatologists and patients with dermatologic disease.

The Oregon Basic Health Services Act was passed by the Oregon Legislature in 1989. This act mandates the provision of and payment for health services to Medicaid recipients based on a prioritized list of diseases and treatments. As a result of this legislation, Oregonians with incomes of 100% or less of the federal poverty level are eligible for Medicaid benefits. At present, families with incomes not exceeding 67% of the federal poverty level qualify for Medicaid in Oregon. The definition of prioritized care, how the prioritization was accomplished, and the potential effect of the implementation of this plan for dermatology and patients with dermatologic disease is discussed.