What OPI provides
ODHS describes OPI as limited in-home services for people who need a little help to keep living independently. Services include:
- Housekeeping
- Personal care, such as bathing and dressing
- Home-delivered meals
- Case management
- Assistive technology
Who qualifies for OPI
Under OAR 411-032-0020, you must:
- Be 60 or older, or under 60 with a diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease or a related disorder.
- Not be getting Medicaid or financial assistance, except SNAP or the QMB and SLMB Medicare Savings Programs.
- Meet Oregon's long-term care service priority rules, based on an assessment of your needs.
- Live in your own home. People in a nursing facility, assisted living, residential care or adult foster home aren't eligible.
What it costs
Under OAR 411-032-0044, local area agencies charge fees on a sliding scale. People with income at or below the federal poverty level pay only a small annual minimum fee. Fees rise with income, and people above 200% of the poverty level pay the full hourly rate. There's no fee for home-delivered meals or case management.
OPI-M, the Medicaid-funded version
With federal approval, ODHS added Oregon Project Independence-Medicaid (OPI-M), a demonstration that runs from 2024 through 2029. ODHS's comparison chart (updated February 4, 2026) lists these differences:
| OPI-M | |
|---|---|
| Age | 18+; under 60 must meet Social Security disability standards |
| Income | Up to 400% of the federal poverty level |
| Resources | Up to about six months of nursing facility costs |
| Cost | No monthly fees |
| Estate recovery | None |
| Services | In-home only, up to 40 hours based on assessed need |
If you need nursing-facility-level care, see Medicaid long-term care in Oregon.
How to apply
- Call ODHS Aging and People with Disabilities. Dial 1-855-673-2372 to find the OPI provider for your area and check eligibility.
- Complete an assessment. Your local Area Agency on Aging assesses your needs and income.
- Get a service plan. Services are reviewed at least every 12 months.
OPI doesn't replace Medicare. To make sure your Medicare coverage fits your needs at home, you can request a call from a licensed insurance agent.
Related questions
How do I qualify for Medicaid long-term care?
Care at home or in a facility.
Does Medicare pay for in-home caregivers?
What Medicare home health covers.
Medicare vs. Medicaid in Oregon
Who pays for what.
Sources
- Oregon Department of Human Services — Oregon Project Independence
- Oregon Administrative Rules — OAR 411-032-0020, OPI eligibility
- Oregon Administrative Rules — OAR 411-032-0044, OPI fees for service
- Oregon Department of Human Services — LTSS and OPI-M comparison chart (updated February 4, 2026)
- Oregon Department of Human Services — Oregon Project Independence-Medicaid FAQ
More questions in this guide
- Can I have Medicare and the Oregon Health Plan?
- Do I keep my CCO when I get Medicare in Oregon?
- Does OHP pay my Medicare Part B premium?
- How do I qualify for Medicaid long-term care in Oregon?
- What's the difference between Medicare and Medicaid in Oregon?
- What happens to my OHP when I turn 65?
- What is a dual special needs plan (D-SNP) in Oregon?
Part of the guide: Oregon Health Plan and Medicare: combined coverage · All questions
Frequently asked questions
Can I get OPI if I have a Medicare Savings Program?
Yes. Oregon's OPI rule bars people on Medicaid or cash assistance, but it makes exceptions for SNAP and for the QMB and SLMB Medicare Savings Programs.
Does Medicare pay for the same help?
No. Medicare doesn't cover custodial help like housekeeping or personal care when that's the only care you need. OPI and Medicaid long-term care are where Oregonians look for that help.
How do I apply for OPI?
ODHS directs people to call 1-855-673-2372 for OPI service areas and eligibility. Your local Area Agency on Aging handles the assessment and services.
Medicare in your Oregon county
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