Major Insurance Increases Expected: Local help comes in December Enrollment Events

One Community Health’s Patient Care Advocates, Saldivar Insurance and Senior Health Insurance Benefits Assistance provide free, one-on-one help to families as they apply for or renewed Medicaid plans, the Oregon Health Plan or Apple Health.

The Dalles, Ore., Oct. 31, 2025 — One Community Health and Saldivar Insurance is hosting a series of free community events this fall to help people sign up for, renew, or change their health coverage for 2026.

Health insurance can feel overwhelming, but One Community Health and Saldivar Insurance say it doesn’t have to be. Representatives from both organizations are encouraging community members to take advantage of upcoming free Open Enrollment events, where residents can sign up for, renew, or switch plans, review Medicare enrollments, and get help understanding their coverage and options. Each event offers a welcoming setting with coffee, pastries, and fruit, and no appointment is required. Anyone with questions can call 541-256-4245 for more information.

One Community Health’s Patient Care Advocates will provide free, one-on-one help alongside partners from Saldivar Insurance and Senior Health Insurance Benefits Assistance (SHIBA).

Attendees can receive support with applying for or renewing Medicaid plans such as Oregon Health Plan and Apple Health, guidance with Marketplace coverage options, reviewing Medicare enrollments, and finding the best plan for themselves and their families.

“Our goal is to make getting covered simple and stress-free,” said German Mondragon, Patient Care Advocate Manager at One Community Health. “You don’t have to figure it out alone—our team and partners are here to help anyone in the community, free of charge.”

One Community Health is also urging Oregon Health Plan members to stay vigilant about keeping their information up to date with the state. Incorrect or outdated mailing addresses, income details, or household information can lead to missed notices and unexpected coverage losses. Members are encouraged to verify their contact information regularly to avoid disruptions.

Each event provides a welcoming space with free coffee, pastries, and fruit while attendees meet with trained advocates to explore their options and get enrolled before Open Enrollment deadlines. Events are open to everyone, and no appointment is required.

Event Dates and Locations

The Dalles One Community Health Clinic
1040 Webber St., The Dalles
Wednesday, December 4 | 9:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m.

Hood River One Community Health Clinic
849 Pacific Ave., Hood River
Monday, December 2 | 9:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m.

For more information, contact German Mondragon, Patient Care Advocate Manager, at 541-256-4245 or visit www.onecommunityhealth.org/medicaid.