Drawing Lots for Health Care

In Oregon, 91,000 residents have signed up for a lottery that provides health insurance to low-income adults who are uncovered but do not qualify for Medicaid or Medicare.

The lottery was born out of a consensus among state officials and advocacy groups that small steps can help. As part of the state’s Medicaid program, known as the Oregon Health Plan, the lottery is intended for low-income adults who lack private insurance and do not qualify for Medicaid or Medicare.