Oregon Medicare Guide (2026)
What Oregon residents and future retirees should know before making Medicare decisions.
State
Oregon
Medicaid Program
Oregon Health Plan (OHP)
Best Used For
Beneficiaries who want strong Medigap consumer protections.
Quick Facts
| State | Oregon |
| Plan Year | 2026 |
| Medicaid Program | Oregon Health Plan (OHP) |
| Birthday Rule | No |
| Medigap | Oregon offers stronger Medigap consumer protections than many states through its Medigap Birthday Rule. Eligible beneficiaries have an annual opportunity to switch to another Medicare Supplement plan with equal or lesser benefits without medical underwriting, making it easier to review coverage and compare premiums over time. |
| Part D | Medicare Part D prescription drug plans are available throughout Oregon for beneficiaries with Original Medicare. Plan premiums, covered medications, pharmacy networks, and out-of-pocket costs change each year, so reviewing your prescription drug coverage during the Annual Enrollment Period can help ensure your plan continues to meet your needs. |
| SHIP Program | Oregon SHIBA |
| Last Reviewed | 2026-06-05 |
Why Oregon Is Different
Oregon offers both Medicare Supplement and Medicare Advantage coverage statewide, with plan choices varying by county. Oregon is one of the states that provides a Medigap Birthday Rule, allowing eligible Medicare Supplement members to switch to another plan of equal or lesser benefits without medical underwriting during their annual birthday window. Beneficiaries who travel frequently or split time between states should carefully compare provider access before selecting a Medicare Advantage plan
Most Common Mistake
Forgetting to use Oregon's Birthday Rule to shop for a better Medigap plan.
Medigap Rules
Oregon offers stronger Medigap consumer protections than many states through its Medigap Birthday Rule. Eligible beneficiaries have an annual opportunity to switch to another Medicare Supplement plan with equal or lesser benefits without medical underwriting, making it easier to review coverage and compare premiums over time.
Medicare Advantage
Medicare Advantage plans are available throughout Oregon, with the greatest selection generally found in the Portland metropolitan area, Salem, Eugene, and Medford. Plan availability, provider networks, premiums, and supplemental benefits vary by county, making it important to compare your local options each year before enrolling or making
Part D Prescription Coverage
Medicare Part D prescription drug plans are available throughout Oregon for beneficiaries with Original Medicare. Plan premiums, covered medications, pharmacy networks, and out-of-pocket costs change each year, so reviewing your prescription drug coverage during the Annual Enrollment Period can help ensure your plan continues to meet your needs.
Provider Network Notes
Networks vary significantly between urban and rural counties. OHSU; Providence; Legacy Health; PeaceHealth
Moving To or From Oregon
Rural moves can significantly change Medicare Advantage availability.
Snowbird Considerations
Original Medicare generally provides greater nationwide flexibility.
Long-Term Care
Oregon Health Plan may help eligible residents with long-term care services.
Retirement Tax Notes
No tax on Social Security; most pension income is taxable.
State Assistance Program
Oregon SHIBA
Visit SHIP WebsiteSources & Review Date
CMS; Medicare.gov; Oregon SHIBA
Plan year: 2026
Last content review: 2026-06-05
Last data review: 2026-06-05