Robin Jackson of Portland is self employed and enjoys an international reputation in his field. He also volunteers a significant amount of his time working with at risk youth. Like many self employed people, Robin has to fend for himself in the individual insurance market.

Two years ago, after struggling unsuccessfully for several years to get into the Family Health Insurance Assistance Program (FHIAP), Robin managed to buy a high deductible plan. Two weeks later, Robin fell and broke his collarbone. His break was severe enough to require surgery and the insertion of a metal plate and screws. His insurance provided some coverage but Robin is still paying off a $7,000 bill with his limited income. When he tried applying for a better plan with his insurer, he was denied because his broken collar bone was classified as a preexisting condition.

After struggling for months, Robin was eventually approved for assistance through FHIAP, but he never had a chance to use his new plan. The federal government cut FHIAP dollars and Robin was forced into the Oregon Health Plan for six months. However, he has still been unsuccessful getting the treatment he needs. Though his collar bone constantly throbs and interferes with his ability to work, OHP won’t cover the recommended removal of the metal plate and screws in his shoulder.

When his OHP coverage ends in a few months, Robin will likely join the ranks of the uninsured. He is worried he won’t be able to find individual coverage with a preexisting condition, much less coverage he will be able to afford.

Robin’s Message to Legislators:

“I want a publicly run health care option. I think the program should be easy for people to use, no one should be denied for pre-existing conditions and the care delivered should be of high quality.”