Oregon Health Authority

Emergency Messages as of 12:15 PM, Fri. Oct 30

No information currently posted.

Subscribe to receive FlashAlert messages from Oregon Health Authority.

Manage my existing Subscription

News Release

Declining Influenza Vaccinations Continue Among Health Care Workers - 10/30/26

October 30, 2026

Media contacts: Jonathan Modie, [email protected]

Declining influenza vaccinations continue among health care workers

OHA data show flu shot rate dropped from 85% to 52% since 2019-2020 season

PORTLAND, Ore.—Despite often caring for patients at higher risk of severe outcomes from respiratory virus infection, health care workers in Oregon continue to lag in rates of vaccination against the potentially deadly influenza, according to new state data.

Just over half the state’s nearly 150,000 eligible health care workers—52%—were vaccinated during the 2025-2026 flu season, according to the Healthcare Worker Influenza Vaccination Dashboard, published by Oregon Health Authority’s Healthcare-Associated Infections (HAI) Program. That is 2 percentage points lower than in the 2024-2025 season and 33 percentage points lower than in the 2019-2020 season, when the rate was 85%.

Dat Tran, M.D., the HAI Program’s medical director, said he’s troubled by declining flu vaccination rates among health care workers at ambulatory surgery centers, dialysis centers, hospitals, inpatient psychiatric facilities and skilled nursing facilities. When flu vaccination rates drop, the risk of influenza transmission to vulnerable patients rises.

“While we encourage everyone in Oregon to get the flu vaccine, it’s especially important for people in the health care field to be vaccinated,” Tran said. “The people being cared for in health care settings often have health conditions that make them particularly susceptible to severe health outcomes, and even death.”

In addition to helping protect patients, higher influenza vaccination rates can help reduce the spread of the virus among a health care facility’s staff, Tran said. This can reduce worker absenteeism, lost productivity, and health care costs.

“We know all too well from the pandemic how an outbreak of a highly infectious respiratory virus in a health care setting can affect hospital staffing levels and patient care,” Tran added. “A health care workforce that’s highly vaccinated against influenza can help reduce the risk and impact of influenza outbreaks in health care settings.”

OHA requires annual reporting of health care worker influenza vaccination data from five facility types: ambulatory surgery centers, dialysis centers, hospitals, inpatient psychiatric facilities, and nursing facilities. Facilities self-report aggregate counts, by worker category, of health care workers who were vaccinated, declined vaccination, had a documented medical contraindication or had unknown vaccination status.

The Healthcare Worker Influenza Vaccination Dashboard filters data by facility type, county and worker classification. Trends by influenza season and facility-specific data are also available.

During the 2025-2026 influenza season, ambulatory surgery centers reported the highest influenza vaccination rate among workers—62%. They were followed by hospitals at 57%, dialysis centers at 51%, inpatient psychiatric facilities at 33%, and nursing facilities at 25%.

Ambulatory surgery centers, dialysis centers, and inpatient psychiatric facilities were the only facility types that saw increases in health care worker influenza vaccination rates between the 2024-2025 and 2025-2026 seasons. Dialysis center influenza vaccination rates have been on a steady upward trend since 2021-2022, when the rate was 27%.

Nursing facilities in Oregon saw the largest drop in health care worker influenza vaccination rates between the 2024-2025 and 2025-2026 seasons: from 30% to 25%.

The proportion of eligible health care workers who declined influenza vaccination during the 2025-2026 season increased slightly from the prior season, from 18% to 19%. Similarly, the percentage of health care workers whose vaccination status was unknown also went up a percentage point during that time, from 28% to 29%, which is the highest percentage of the past seven flu seasons.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Healthy People 2020 initiative included a goal of 90% influenza vaccination coverage among health care personnel. Healthy People 2030 does not include a health care personnel-specific influenza vaccination goal, so Oregon continues to use the former Healthy People 2020 goal as its benchmark.

To achieve 90% vaccination coverage, an additional 55,433 health care workers would have needed to be vaccinated during the 2025-2026 influenza season.

It’s difficult to know from these data alone why Oregon’s documented health care worker influenza vaccination rate has declined, Tran said. Similar declines have been reported nationally, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has identified several possible contributors, including vaccine fatigue, reduced emphasis on influenza vaccination during the COVID-19 pandemic, lower perceived influenza risk and differences in workplace vaccination policies and access.

“Oregon also saw the percentage of health care workers with unknown vaccination status rise from 7% in 2019-2020 to 29% in 2025-2026, so documentation may be part of the picture,” Tran said. “However, unknown status does not tell us whether an individual worker was vaccinated, and the dashboard cannot determine how much of the decline reflects vaccination behavior versus incomplete documentation.”

Health care facilities can take steps to meet this goal, Tran explained. Public health recommendations include encouraging health care workers, including those not employed by the facility—such as contractors and volunteers—to get vaccinated at the beginning of every influenza season. Facilities can also host promotional activities, such as holding mass vaccination fairs, providing vaccines at no cost to employees, starting incentive programs, and documenting all health care workers’ vaccination status and requiring a declination form for health care workers who forgo vaccination.

OHA has developed a toolkit for health care employers and workers to help them improve employee flu vaccination rates at their facilities to protect patients, themselves and their families.

###

Declining Influenza Vaccinations Continue Among Health Care Workers - 10/30/26

October 30, 2026

Media contacts: Jonathan Modie, [email protected]

Declining influenza vaccinations continue among health care workers

OHA data show flu shot rate dropped from 85% to 52% since 2019-2020 season

PORTLAND, Ore.—Despite often caring for patients at higher risk of severe outcomes from respiratory virus infection, health care workers in Oregon continue to lag in rates of vaccination against the potentially deadly influenza, according to new state data.

Just over half the state’s nearly 150,000 eligible health care workers—52%—were vaccinated during the 2025-2026 flu season, according to the Healthcare Worker Influenza Vaccination Dashboard, published by Oregon Health Authority’s Healthcare-Associated Infections (HAI) Program. That is 2 percentage points lower than in the 2024-2025 season and 33 percentage points lower than in the 2019-2020 season, when the rate was 85%.

Dat Tran, M.D., the HAI Program’s medical director, said he’s troubled by declining flu vaccination rates among health care workers at ambulatory surgery centers, dialysis centers, hospitals, inpatient psychiatric facilities and skilled nursing facilities. When flu vaccination rates drop, the risk of influenza transmission to vulnerable patients rises.

“While we encourage everyone in Oregon to get the flu vaccine, it’s especially important for people in the health care field to be vaccinated,” Tran said. “The people being cared for in health care settings often have health conditions that make them particularly susceptible to severe health outcomes, and even death.”

In addition to helping protect patients, higher influenza vaccination rates can help reduce the spread of the virus among a health care facility’s staff, Tran said. This can reduce worker absenteeism, lost productivity, and health care costs.

“We know all too well from the pandemic how an outbreak of a highly infectious respiratory virus in a health care setting can affect hospital staffing levels and patient care,” Tran added. “A health care workforce that’s highly vaccinated against influenza can help reduce the risk and impact of influenza outbreaks in health care settings.”

OHA requires annual reporting of health care worker influenza vaccination data from five facility types: ambulatory surgery centers, dialysis centers, hospitals, inpatient psychiatric facilities, and nursing facilities. Facilities self-report aggregate counts, by worker category, of health care workers who were vaccinated, declined vaccination, had a documented medical contraindication or had unknown vaccination status.

The Healthcare Worker Influenza Vaccination Dashboard filters data by facility type, county and worker classification. Trends by influenza season and facility-specific data are also available.

During the 2025-2026 influenza season, ambulatory surgery centers reported the highest influenza vaccination rate among workers—62%. They were followed by hospitals at 57%, dialysis centers at 51%, inpatient psychiatric facilities at 33%, and nursing facilities at 25%.

Ambulatory surgery centers, dialysis centers, and inpatient psychiatric facilities were the only facility types that saw increases in health care worker influenza vaccination rates between the 2024-2025 and 2025-2026 seasons. Dialysis center influenza vaccination rates have been on a steady upward trend since 2021-2022, when the rate was 27%.

Nursing facilities in Oregon saw the largest drop in health care worker influenza vaccination rates between the 2024-2025 and 2025-2026 seasons: from 30% to 25%.

The proportion of eligible health care workers who declined influenza vaccination during the 2025-2026 season increased slightly from the prior season, from 18% to 19%. Similarly, the percentage of health care workers whose vaccination status was unknown also went up a percentage point during that time, from 28% to 29%, which is the highest percentage of the past seven flu seasons.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Healthy People 2020 initiative included a goal of 90% influenza vaccination coverage among health care personnel. Healthy People 2030 does not include a health care personnel-specific influenza vaccination goal, so Oregon continues to use the former Healthy People 2020 goal as its benchmark.

To achieve 90% vaccination coverage, an additional 55,433 health care workers would have needed to be vaccinated during the 2025-2026 influenza season.

It’s difficult to know from these data alone why Oregon’s documented health care worker influenza vaccination rate has declined, Tran said. Similar declines have been reported nationally, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has identified several possible contributors, including vaccine fatigue, reduced emphasis on influenza vaccination during the COVID-19 pandemic, lower perceived influenza risk and differences in workplace vaccination policies and access.

“Oregon also saw the percentage of health care workers with unknown vaccination status rise from 7% in 2019-2020 to 29% in 2025-2026, so documentation may be part of the picture,” Tran said. “However, unknown status does not tell us whether an individual worker was vaccinated, and the dashboard cannot determine how much of the decline reflects vaccination behavior versus incomplete documentation.”

Health care facilities can take steps to meet this goal, Tran explained. Public health recommendations include encouraging health care workers, including those not employed by the facility—such as contractors and volunteers—to get vaccinated at the beginning of every influenza season. Facilities can also host promotional activities, such as holding mass vaccination fairs, providing vaccines at no cost to employees, starting incentive programs, and documenting all health care workers’ vaccination status and requiring a declination form for health care workers who forgo vaccination.

OHA has developed a toolkit for health care employers and workers to help them improve employee flu vaccination rates at their facilities to protect patients, themselves and their families.

###

Recreational Use Advisory Downgraded To Precaution For Eckman Lake - 10/29/26

October 29, 2026

Media contact: Jonathan Modie, [email protected]

Recreational use advisory downgraded to precaution for Eckman Lake

Pet owners should continue to keep their pets away from areas that appear to have a bloom

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) has downgraded the recreational use health advisory to a precaution for Eckman Lake.

OHA issued the advisory Aug. 28.

Water monitoring has confirmed that the level of cyanotoxins in Eckman Lake are below recreational guideline values for people. However, levels detected are still above OHA’s educational guideline values for dogs, and owners should keep their pets away from areas with blooms.

OHA advises recreational visitors to continually be alert to signs of cyanobacteria blooms. This is because blooms can develop and disappear on any water body at any time when bloom conditions are favorable. Only a fraction of water bodies in Oregon are monitored for blooms and toxins, so it’s important for people to become familiar with the signs of a bloom, and exposure routes and symptoms by visiting OHA’s Cyanobacteria (Harmful Algae) Blooms website at http://www.healthoregon.org/hab.

When recreating, people, and especially small children, and pets should avoid areas where the water is foamy, scummy, thick like paint, pea-green or blue-green, or if thick brownish-red mats are visible or bright green clumps are suspended in the water. If you see these signs, avoid activities such as swimming or motorized or non-motorized boating activities that cause you to swallow water or inhale droplets, and keep pets out of the area.

Cyanotoxins can still exist in clear water. When a bloom dies, toxins released may reach into clear water around the bloom. Blooms can be pushed into other areas, leaving toxins behind. There also are species of cyanobacteria that anchor themselves at the bottom of a water body, live in the sediment, or can grow on aquatic plants and release toxins into clear water.

For health information or to report an illness, contact OHA at 971-673-0482, or visit OHA’s Cyanobacteria (Harmful Algae) Blooms website.

###

Recreational Use Advisory Downgraded To Precaution For Eckman Lake - 10/29/26

October 29, 2026

Media contact: Jonathan Modie, [email protected]

Recreational use advisory downgraded to precaution for Eckman Lake

Pet owners should continue to keep their pets away from areas that appear to have a bloom

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) has downgraded the recreational use health advisory to a precaution for Eckman Lake.

OHA issued the advisory Aug. 28.

Water monitoring has confirmed that the level of cyanotoxins in Eckman Lake are below recreational guideline values for people. However, levels detected are still above OHA’s educational guideline values for dogs, and owners should keep their pets away from areas with blooms.

OHA advises recreational visitors to continually be alert to signs of cyanobacteria blooms. This is because blooms can develop and disappear on any water body at any time when bloom conditions are favorable. Only a fraction of water bodies in Oregon are monitored for blooms and toxins, so it’s important for people to become familiar with the signs of a bloom, and exposure routes and symptoms by visiting OHA’s Cyanobacteria (Harmful Algae) Blooms website at http://www.healthoregon.org/hab.

When recreating, people, and especially small children, and pets should avoid areas where the water is foamy, scummy, thick like paint, pea-green or blue-green, or if thick brownish-red mats are visible or bright green clumps are suspended in the water. If you see these signs, avoid activities such as swimming or motorized or non-motorized boating activities that cause you to swallow water or inhale droplets, and keep pets out of the area.

Cyanotoxins can still exist in clear water. When a bloom dies, toxins released may reach into clear water around the bloom. Blooms can be pushed into other areas, leaving toxins behind. There also are species of cyanobacteria that anchor themselves at the bottom of a water body, live in the sediment, or can grow on aquatic plants and release toxins into clear water.

For health information or to report an illness, contact OHA at 971-673-0482, or visit OHA’s Cyanobacteria (Harmful Algae) Blooms website.

###

Staff Training Will Pause Some Oregon Health Plan Calls Early On Thursday; Other Services Still Open - 10/28/26

October 28, 2026

Staff Training will Pause Some Oregon Health Plan Calls Early on Thursday; Other Services Still Open

Salem, Ore. – Due to training for Oregon Health Plan (OHP) employees, some call center options will be unavailable on Thursday, Oct. 29 from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Pacific Time:

  • Client Services at 800-273-0557
  • Provider Enrollment help (Option 6) and Claims/Provider Portal help (Option 5) at 800-336-6016

Other options are available. This does not affect:

  • The ONE Customer Service Center at 800-699-9075, where members apply, renew, and report changes to OHP.
  • Call lines for OHP coordinated care organizations.
  • Care coordination support for members not enrolled in a local coordinated care organization.

Members can find all phone and email contacts for member help at OHP.Oregon.gov/Help.

Members and providers can also visit the OHP closures page to learn about other resources and self-help options available during this time. 

About OHP Client Services

Client Services is a call center for Oregon Health Plan members not enrolled in a coordinated care organization (CCO), also known as “OHP Open Card." Members can call this line to ask about:

  • Health care bills
  • Getting a member handbook
  • Enrolling in a CCO
  • Changing their CCO

Most OHP members are in a CCO, and should call their CCO for help with bills, making appointments or using benefits.

OHP Open Card members can also get help making appointments and using benefits from:

  • OHP Open Card at 800-562-4620
  • CareOregon Tribal Care Coordination at 844-847-9320. This line is for Open Card members who self-identify as American Indian or Alaska Native.

About OHP Provider Services

Provider Services is the call center for OHP providers who serve members not enrolled in a CCO. Providers can call to ask about:

  • Becoming an OHP provider
  • Using the MMIS Provider Portal at https://www.or-medicaid.gov
  • Complex billing issues
  • Whether a service needs approval
  • Whether OHP covers a specific service

For questions about billing and coverage for services provided to OHP CCO members, providers should contact the member’s CCO.

Staff Training Will Pause Some Oregon Health Plan Calls Early On Thursday; Other Services Still Open - 10/28/26

October 28, 2026

Staff Training will Pause Some Oregon Health Plan Calls Early on Thursday; Other Services Still Open

Salem, Ore. – Due to training for Oregon Health Plan (OHP) employees, some call center options will be unavailable on Thursday, Oct. 29 from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Pacific Time:

  • Client Services at 800-273-0557
  • Provider Enrollment help (Option 6) and Claims/Provider Portal help (Option 5) at 800-336-6016

Other options are available. This does not affect:

  • The ONE Customer Service Center at 800-699-9075, where members apply, renew, and report changes to OHP.
  • Call lines for OHP coordinated care organizations.
  • Care coordination support for members not enrolled in a local coordinated care organization.

Members can find all phone and email contacts for member help at OHP.Oregon.gov/Help.

Members and providers can also visit the OHP closures page to learn about other resources and self-help options available during this time. 

About OHP Client Services

Client Services is a call center for Oregon Health Plan members not enrolled in a coordinated care organization (CCO), also known as “OHP Open Card." Members can call this line to ask about:

  • Health care bills
  • Getting a member handbook
  • Enrolling in a CCO
  • Changing their CCO

Most OHP members are in a CCO, and should call their CCO for help with bills, making appointments or using benefits.

OHP Open Card members can also get help making appointments and using benefits from:

  • OHP Open Card at 800-562-4620
  • CareOregon Tribal Care Coordination at 844-847-9320. This line is for Open Card members who self-identify as American Indian or Alaska Native.

About OHP Provider Services

Provider Services is the call center for OHP providers who serve members not enrolled in a CCO. Providers can call to ask about:

  • Becoming an OHP provider
  • Using the MMIS Provider Portal at https://www.or-medicaid.gov
  • Complex billing issues
  • Whether a service needs approval
  • Whether OHP covers a specific service

For questions about billing and coverage for services provided to OHP CCO members, providers should contact the member’s CCO.

Governor Kotek Celebrates Opening Of New Opioid Treatment Program In Gresham - 10/27/26

October 27, 2026

Media Contact: Kim Lippert, [email protected] 

Governor Kotek Celebrates Opening of New Opioid Treatment Program in Gresham

Gresham, OR — Governor Tina Kotek today joined community leaders to celebrate the grand opening of a New Season Treatment Center in Gresham that will bring comprehensive, outpatient medication assisted treatment (MAT) to East Multnomah County, including neighboring rural communities that have historically lacked direct access to specialized care.

The program offers evidence-based treatment for opioid use disorder with methadone and buprenorphine, along with counseling. Services are outpatient, meaning the patient can continue to recover while continuing their daily activities like work or school uninterrupted. The center was made possible by a $1.8 million investment of state opioid settlement funds allocated by the Oregon Opioid Settlement Prevention, Treatment, and Recovery Board. In support of Oregon’s commitment to reducing opioid deaths, the Board has funded 11 opioid treatment programs in high-need regions across the state.

“Treatment where people need it, when they need it, is absolutely critical to fighting the addiction crisis in Oregon,” Governor Kotek said. “We lose too many people on the path to recovery when there are gaps between communities and services. This program shows what’s possible when local, state, and regional partners work together.”

Bringing care closer to home

Residents of East Multnomah County have often had to travel too far, wait too long, or go without comprehensive, evidence-based treatment for opioid use disorder. The new clinic is located to serve both Gresham residents and surrounding rural communities. It will also build referral relationships with local healthcare, emergency, and social service providers, so people stay connected to their care network as they move forward in recovery.

“Expanding access to addiction care saves lives,” Ebony Clarke, Behavioral Health Director at the Oregon Health Authority, said. “Methadone reduces opioid-related harm, lowers the risk of fatal overdose, and helps people stabilize so they can rebuild their lives. Bringing services closer to where people live, work, and care for their families improves access, equity, and outcomes, and it supports our goal of eliminating health inequities.”

“Strong leadership and a community that shows up for its residents can change the course of recovery,” said Jim Shaheen, CEO of New Season Treatment Center. “We’re grateful to Governor Kotek, the Opioid Settlement Board and our local partners for welcoming us and helping bring treatment closer to home. Together, we’re giving more individuals the care and support they need for a happier, healthier life.”

The grand opening is part of a broader expansion of Oregon’s behavioral health system. Under Governor Kotek’s leadership, Oregon anticipates adding 1,722 licensed residential treatment beds, including 769 substance use disorder treatment beds. Of those, 1,052 beds are already open and serving Oregonians, with 670 additional beds scheduled to open in the next two and a half years. This represents a more than 61% increase in capacity. Prior to 2022, Oregon relied largely on limited, project‑specific investments or external private-sector funding to expand behavioral health capacity. Under Governor Kotek’s leadership, and in partnership with the Legislature, the state has begun a new chapter, aggressively funding increased capacity to meet the scale of need statewide.

The state is also working to address the behavioral health workforce shortage alongside this expansion. Led by First Lady Aimee Kotek, the Governor’s Behavioral Health Talent Council met with frontline providers, people with lived experience, and leaders across the state to produce a comprehensive report that is now guiding the state’s next steps.

###

Governor Kotek Celebrates Opening Of New Opioid Treatment Program In Gresham - 10/27/26

October 27, 2026

Media Contact: Kim Lippert, [email protected] 

Governor Kotek Celebrates Opening of New Opioid Treatment Program in Gresham

Gresham, OR — Governor Tina Kotek today joined community leaders to celebrate the grand opening of a New Season Treatment Center in Gresham that will bring comprehensive, outpatient medication assisted treatment (MAT) to East Multnomah County, including neighboring rural communities that have historically lacked direct access to specialized care.

The program offers evidence-based treatment for opioid use disorder with methadone and buprenorphine, along with counseling. Services are outpatient, meaning the patient can continue to recover while continuing their daily activities like work or school uninterrupted. The center was made possible by a $1.8 million investment of state opioid settlement funds allocated by the Oregon Opioid Settlement Prevention, Treatment, and Recovery Board. In support of Oregon’s commitment to reducing opioid deaths, the Board has funded 11 opioid treatment programs in high-need regions across the state.

“Treatment where people need it, when they need it, is absolutely critical to fighting the addiction crisis in Oregon,” Governor Kotek said. “We lose too many people on the path to recovery when there are gaps between communities and services. This program shows what’s possible when local, state, and regional partners work together.”

Bringing care closer to home

Residents of East Multnomah County have often had to travel too far, wait too long, or go without comprehensive, evidence-based treatment for opioid use disorder. The new clinic is located to serve both Gresham residents and surrounding rural communities. It will also build referral relationships with local healthcare, emergency, and social service providers, so people stay connected to their care network as they move forward in recovery.

“Expanding access to addiction care saves lives,” Ebony Clarke, Behavioral Health Director at the Oregon Health Authority, said. “Methadone reduces opioid-related harm, lowers the risk of fatal overdose, and helps people stabilize so they can rebuild their lives. Bringing services closer to where people live, work, and care for their families improves access, equity, and outcomes, and it supports our goal of eliminating health inequities.”

“Strong leadership and a community that shows up for its residents can change the course of recovery,” said Jim Shaheen, CEO of New Season Treatment Center. “We’re grateful to Governor Kotek, the Opioid Settlement Board and our local partners for welcoming us and helping bring treatment closer to home. Together, we’re giving more individuals the care and support they need for a happier, healthier life.”

The grand opening is part of a broader expansion of Oregon’s behavioral health system. Under Governor Kotek’s leadership, Oregon anticipates adding 1,722 licensed residential treatment beds, including 769 substance use disorder treatment beds. Of those, 1,052 beds are already open and serving Oregonians, with 670 additional beds scheduled to open in the next two and a half years. This represents a more than 61% increase in capacity. Prior to 2022, Oregon relied largely on limited, project‑specific investments or external private-sector funding to expand behavioral health capacity. Under Governor Kotek’s leadership, and in partnership with the Legislature, the state has begun a new chapter, aggressively funding increased capacity to meet the scale of need statewide.

The state is also working to address the behavioral health workforce shortage alongside this expansion. Led by First Lady Aimee Kotek, the Governor’s Behavioral Health Talent Council met with frontline providers, people with lived experience, and leaders across the state to produce a comprehensive report that is now guiding the state’s next steps.

###

OHA, ODHS: Maintain Safe Sleep Environment To Keep Babies Healthy - 10/27/26

October 27, 2026

Media contacts:

OHA, ODHS: Maintain safe sleep environment to keep babies healthy

During Safe Sleep and SIDS Awareness Month, agencies urge families to prevent accidental suffocation, strangulation, SIDS by using safe infant sleep approaches

PORTLAND, Ore.— Newborns arrive with incredible potential, and their growing bodies develop rapidly in their first months of life. Their soft, flexible rib cages, developing muscles, and still‑maturing brain centers for breathing and heart rate are all part of the amazing growth that happens early.

Because infants are still growing in important ways, they benefit greatly from surroundings that help them breathe easily and rest safely.

During Safe Sleep and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) Awareness Month this October, Oregon Health Authority (OHA) and Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) are urging families across Oregon to create sleep environments that support a baby’s healthy development.

A baby’s chest and airway are especially sensitive during early months. Gentle pressure on the chest can influence breathing or heart rhythm, and developing neck and chest muscles may make it harder for infants to shift position if something blocks their airway. Their brain stem—which manages breathing and heart rate—is also still strengthening, meaning it may take longer for them to wake themselves when they need more oxygen.

The good news is that supportive sleep practices can make a big difference. When babies sleep in the same room as a caregiver on a firm, flat surface without pillows or soft bedding, they have the safest conditions for steady breathing and healthy sleep. Caregivers who do not use alcohol, drugs, and other substances help ensure that adults are fully alert and able to respond to infants’ needs.

Sudden unexpected infant death (SUID) is a broad term that includes several causes—SIDS, accidental suffocation or strangulation in bed, and deaths of unknown cause. Many risks associated with SUID can be reduced by creating a safe, uncluttered sleep environment and placing babies on their backs for every nap and every night.

Some products and practices can unintentionally create risks. Inclined sleepers, infant loungers, and similar items can cause a baby’s head to tilt forward, narrowing the airway. Stomach sleeping or soft bedding can put pressure on the chest or block breathing. Sharing an adult bed increases the risk of rolling onto a baby, especially when adults are extremely tired or under the influence of substances. Couches and chairs are not safe places for infants to sleep.

Nearly 40 infants in the state die each year in their sleep, said Dean Sidelinger, M.D., M.S.Ed., health officer and state epidemiologist at OHA’s Public Health Division.

“Every child death is a tragedy,” Sidelinger said. “Many of these deaths during sleep are preventable by following some easy steps, which we are sharing today.”

Among them are encouraging families to take advantage of free, voluntary nurse home visiting programs administered through OHA. They include Babies First!, Family Connects Oregon and Nurse-Family Partnership. Safe infant sleep is one of the topics covered during home visits.

Another resource is Oregon Family Care Plans. This collaboration of Comagine Health, OHA, and ODHS helps parents and caregivers build strong, sustainable care plans to address life challenges, such as pregnancy, birth, and postpartum, and includes safe infant sleep practices.

“Family Care Plans are an opportunity to partner with families about their most pressing needs and concerns, including their infant’s sleep environment. When an unmet need is identified by a family working with ODHS, it helps us partner alongside the family to fill in the gap to enhance the safety and well-being of the whole family,” Child Welfare Interim Director Rolanda Garcia said.

Some parents choose to sleep with their baby, which can be unsafe. It can be especially unsafe to sleep with your baby if:

  • You are sleeping on a soft surface, such as an adult bed with quilts, comforters, and pillows, a sofa, couch or armchair.
  • You currently smoke or smoked during pregnancy.
  • You have taken drugs, including cannabis, alcohol or medications that make you sleepy.

Tips for caring for infants:

  • Always put your baby to sleep on his/her back.
  • Make sure no one smokes around your baby.
  • Breastfeed your baby, if possible. 
  • Put your baby to sleep in the room where you sleep.
  • Remove soft, fluffy bedding, pillows, stuffed toys and bumper pads from your baby’s sleep area. Use a firm sleep surface. Avoid placing your baby to sleep on soft things like couches or upholstered chairs, waterbeds, beanbag chairs, quilts or comforters.
  • Talk with grandparents and other caregivers about safe sleep information.
  • Offer a pacifier at nap time and bedtime. This helps reduce the risk of SIDS. If you are breastfeeding, wait until breastfeeding is going well before offering a pacifier. This usually takes three to four weeks. It’s OK if your baby doesn’t want to use a pacifier.
  • Avoid overheating and head covering.

Resources

  • Caregiver exhaustion is normal when caring for infants. Call, text, or email 211 (https://www.211info.org/contact-us/) to get connected to resources that can provide support.
  • More information and safe sleep practices in multiple languages are available on OHA’s Safe Sleep for Babies webpage.
  • The most important thing you can do for your baby’s health is to quit smoking. For help, call the Oregon Tobacco Quit Line: 

For more information, visit: Oregon Safe Sleep Coalition.

###

OHA, ODHS: Maintain Safe Sleep Environment To Keep Babies Healthy - 10/27/26

October 27, 2026

Media contacts:

OHA, ODHS: Maintain safe sleep environment to keep babies healthy

During Safe Sleep and SIDS Awareness Month, agencies urge families to prevent accidental suffocation, strangulation, SIDS by using safe infant sleep approaches

PORTLAND, Ore.— Newborns arrive with incredible potential, and their growing bodies develop rapidly in their first months of life. Their soft, flexible rib cages, developing muscles, and still‑maturing brain centers for breathing and heart rate are all part of the amazing growth that happens early.

Because infants are still growing in important ways, they benefit greatly from surroundings that help them breathe easily and rest safely.

During Safe Sleep and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) Awareness Month this October, Oregon Health Authority (OHA) and Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) are urging families across Oregon to create sleep environments that support a baby’s healthy development.

A baby’s chest and airway are especially sensitive during early months. Gentle pressure on the chest can influence breathing or heart rhythm, and developing neck and chest muscles may make it harder for infants to shift position if something blocks their airway. Their brain stem—which manages breathing and heart rate—is also still strengthening, meaning it may take longer for them to wake themselves when they need more oxygen.

The good news is that supportive sleep practices can make a big difference. When babies sleep in the same room as a caregiver on a firm, flat surface without pillows or soft bedding, they have the safest conditions for steady breathing and healthy sleep. Caregivers who do not use alcohol, drugs, and other substances help ensure that adults are fully alert and able to respond to infants’ needs.

Sudden unexpected infant death (SUID) is a broad term that includes several causes—SIDS, accidental suffocation or strangulation in bed, and deaths of unknown cause. Many risks associated with SUID can be reduced by creating a safe, uncluttered sleep environment and placing babies on their backs for every nap and every night.

Some products and practices can unintentionally create risks. Inclined sleepers, infant loungers, and similar items can cause a baby’s head to tilt forward, narrowing the airway. Stomach sleeping or soft bedding can put pressure on the chest or block breathing. Sharing an adult bed increases the risk of rolling onto a baby, especially when adults are extremely tired or under the influence of substances. Couches and chairs are not safe places for infants to sleep.

Nearly 40 infants in the state die each year in their sleep, said Dean Sidelinger, M.D., M.S.Ed., health officer and state epidemiologist at OHA’s Public Health Division.

“Every child death is a tragedy,” Sidelinger said. “Many of these deaths during sleep are preventable by following some easy steps, which we are sharing today.”

Among them are encouraging families to take advantage of free, voluntary nurse home visiting programs administered through OHA. They include Babies First!, Family Connects Oregon and Nurse-Family Partnership. Safe infant sleep is one of the topics covered during home visits.

Another resource is Oregon Family Care Plans. This collaboration of Comagine Health, OHA, and ODHS helps parents and caregivers build strong, sustainable care plans to address life challenges, such as pregnancy, birth, and postpartum, and includes safe infant sleep practices.

“Family Care Plans are an opportunity to partner with families about their most pressing needs and concerns, including their infant’s sleep environment. When an unmet need is identified by a family working with ODHS, it helps us partner alongside the family to fill in the gap to enhance the safety and well-being of the whole family,” Child Welfare Interim Director Rolanda Garcia said.

Some parents choose to sleep with their baby, which can be unsafe. It can be especially unsafe to sleep with your baby if:

  • You are sleeping on a soft surface, such as an adult bed with quilts, comforters, and pillows, a sofa, couch or armchair.
  • You currently smoke or smoked during pregnancy.
  • You have taken drugs, including cannabis, alcohol or medications that make you sleepy.

Tips for caring for infants:

  • Always put your baby to sleep on his/her back.
  • Make sure no one smokes around your baby.
  • Breastfeed your baby, if possible. 
  • Put your baby to sleep in the room where you sleep.
  • Remove soft, fluffy bedding, pillows, stuffed toys and bumper pads from your baby’s sleep area. Use a firm sleep surface. Avoid placing your baby to sleep on soft things like couches or upholstered chairs, waterbeds, beanbag chairs, quilts or comforters.
  • Talk with grandparents and other caregivers about safe sleep information.
  • Offer a pacifier at nap time and bedtime. This helps reduce the risk of SIDS. If you are breastfeeding, wait until breastfeeding is going well before offering a pacifier. This usually takes three to four weeks. It’s OK if your baby doesn’t want to use a pacifier.
  • Avoid overheating and head covering.

Resources

  • Caregiver exhaustion is normal when caring for infants. Call, text, or email 211 (https://www.211info.org/contact-us/) to get connected to resources that can provide support.
  • More information and safe sleep practices in multiple languages are available on OHA’s Safe Sleep for Babies webpage.
  • The most important thing you can do for your baby’s health is to quit smoking. For help, call the Oregon Tobacco Quit Line: 

For more information, visit: Oregon Safe Sleep Coalition.

###

Breast Cancer Survivors Emphasize Early Detection, Community Support - 10/26/26

October 26, 2026

Media contact: Erica Heartquist, [email protected]

Breast cancer survivors emphasize early detection, community support

Two survivors share their experiences during Breast Cancer Awareness Month and encourage people to seek screening guidance and support

PORTLAND, Ore. – When Susan Stearns found a lump in her breast eight years ago, she scheduled a mammogram that day. Within weeks, she was diagnosed with breast cancer.

Today, as CEO of Pink Lemonade Project, Stearns draws on her experience to help others navigate diagnosis, treatment and life beyond cancer.

During Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Stearns and Brooks Fuentes, program associate for community support at Young Survival Coalition (YSC), are sharing their personal experiences to emphasize the importance of breast health, early detection and emotional support. “I found a lump in the shower in April of 2018 and panicked,” Stearns said. “I almost knew I had breast cancer, but I scheduled a mammogram that day rather than worrying about it and putting it off.”

Founded in Vancouver, Wash., 16 years ago, Pink Lemonade Project serves 42 counties across Oregon and southwest Washington. Its programs provide emotional, practical and financial support to people affected by breast cancer at every stage, including those living with metastatic disease.

“Breast cancer incidence rates are climbing for women under 40 —so before the screening age,” Stearns said. “We know that more younger women, and specifically people of color, are getting diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer, which is a more complicated kind to treat. We know that people in rural communities are getting diagnosed at later stages and with a diagnosis are dying at higher rates than they are in urban areas.”

“The fact is one in seven women will be diagnosed in this region,” Stearns added, “so it’s more important than ever to educate people how to do a self-exam, when to start getting screened and why early detection can be lifesaving.”

Brooks Fuentes (left) and Susan Stearns (right) have become friends through their shared experiences

 

Finding support through treatment

For Fuentes, a family history of breast cancer prompted her to get her first mammogram at age 36. Her mother had been diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer at 46 and later died from the disease.

“I saw my mom go through metastatic breast cancer and pass away and knew that that was just so important from the get-go,” Fuentes said. “I was diagnosed with cancer right then. I couldn't even feel it.”

Fuentes was diagnosed with stage 2 invasive ductal carcinoma. Her treatment included chemotherapy, lumpectomy, radiation and immunotherapy.

She turned to local organizations, including Pink Lemonade Project and Breast Friends, as well as YSC, to find others who understood what she was experiencing.

“And it really saved my life,” Fuentes said. “Just as a clinician will give you chemotherapy, you also need that psychosocial support. And I was able to find some of my best friends through these organizations.”

Now a five-year breast cancer survivor, Fuentes helps connect others with resources and community through her work at YSC. She understands how isolating a diagnosis can be, especially for younger adults who may struggle to find others facing similar experiences.

“When you're the youngest person in that cancer waiting room, you feel so isolated and alone,” she said. Fuentes encourages people to understand their individual risk and talk with a health care provider about appropriate screening, particularly if they have a family history of breast cancer or notice changes in their body. “I'm a five-year survivor and doing great. So, early detection and knowing your normal is essential,” she said.

“The really big message is that pink is not just a marketing tactic,” Stearns said. “We are literally talking about a preventable and screenable cancer, where, if caught early, there are more life-saving treatments than ever before.”

Both women’s experiences underscore an important message: know your body, understand your risk, and seek timely, regular screenings. It is crucial. And when breast cancer changes a person's life, compassionate support and connection is just as important as medical care, making a meaningful difference throughout the healing journey.

People affected by breast cancer, including family members and caregivers, can learn more about resources and support through these organizations:

##

Breast Cancer Survivors Emphasize Early Detection, Community Support - 10/26/26

October 26, 2026

Media contact: Erica Heartquist, [email protected]

Breast cancer survivors emphasize early detection, community support

Two survivors share their experiences during Breast Cancer Awareness Month and encourage people to seek screening guidance and support

PORTLAND, Ore. – When Susan Stearns found a lump in her breast eight years ago, she scheduled a mammogram that day. Within weeks, she was diagnosed with breast cancer.

Today, as CEO of Pink Lemonade Project, Stearns draws on her experience to help others navigate diagnosis, treatment and life beyond cancer.

During Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Stearns and Brooks Fuentes, program associate for community support at Young Survival Coalition (YSC), are sharing their personal experiences to emphasize the importance of breast health, early detection and emotional support. “I found a lump in the shower in April of 2018 and panicked,” Stearns said. “I almost knew I had breast cancer, but I scheduled a mammogram that day rather than worrying about it and putting it off.”

Founded in Vancouver, Wash., 16 years ago, Pink Lemonade Project serves 42 counties across Oregon and southwest Washington. Its programs provide emotional, practical and financial support to people affected by breast cancer at every stage, including those living with metastatic disease.

“Breast cancer incidence rates are climbing for women under 40 —so before the screening age,” Stearns said. “We know that more younger women, and specifically people of color, are getting diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer, which is a more complicated kind to treat. We know that people in rural communities are getting diagnosed at later stages and with a diagnosis are dying at higher rates than they are in urban areas.”

“The fact is one in seven women will be diagnosed in this region,” Stearns added, “so it’s more important than ever to educate people how to do a self-exam, when to start getting screened and why early detection can be lifesaving.”

Brooks Fuentes (left) and Susan Stearns (right) have become friends through their shared experiences

 

Finding support through treatment

For Fuentes, a family history of breast cancer prompted her to get her first mammogram at age 36. Her mother had been diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer at 46 and later died from the disease.

“I saw my mom go through metastatic breast cancer and pass away and knew that that was just so important from the get-go,” Fuentes said. “I was diagnosed with cancer right then. I couldn't even feel it.”

Fuentes was diagnosed with stage 2 invasive ductal carcinoma. Her treatment included chemotherapy, lumpectomy, radiation and immunotherapy.

She turned to local organizations, including Pink Lemonade Project and Breast Friends, as well as YSC, to find others who understood what she was experiencing.

“And it really saved my life,” Fuentes said. “Just as a clinician will give you chemotherapy, you also need that psychosocial support. And I was able to find some of my best friends through these organizations.”

Now a five-year breast cancer survivor, Fuentes helps connect others with resources and community through her work at YSC. She understands how isolating a diagnosis can be, especially for younger adults who may struggle to find others facing similar experiences.

“When you're the youngest person in that cancer waiting room, you feel so isolated and alone,” she said. Fuentes encourages people to understand their individual risk and talk with a health care provider about appropriate screening, particularly if they have a family history of breast cancer or notice changes in their body. “I'm a five-year survivor and doing great. So, early detection and knowing your normal is essential,” she said.

“The really big message is that pink is not just a marketing tactic,” Stearns said. “We are literally talking about a preventable and screenable cancer, where, if caught early, there are more life-saving treatments than ever before.”

Both women’s experiences underscore an important message: know your body, understand your risk, and seek timely, regular screenings. It is crucial. And when breast cancer changes a person's life, compassionate support and connection is just as important as medical care, making a meaningful difference throughout the healing journey.

People affected by breast cancer, including family members and caregivers, can learn more about resources and support through these organizations:

##

As Climate Hazards Increase, Oregon Communities Fight Back - 10/22/26

October 22, 2026

Media contact: Jonathan Modie, [email protected]

As climate hazards increase, Oregon communities fight back

OHA’s annual Climate and Health report shows extreme heat, wildfire smoke, drought are continuing burdens, but local projects are building resilience

PORTLAND, Ore.—Climate hazards are happening with more frequency in Oregon, with more days of extreme heat and wildfire smoke—and, in many areas, combinations of both—than 20 years ago, a new Oregon Health Authority (OHA) report shows.

But communities are fighting back with projects to mitigate the effects on human health, according to the OHA Public Health Division’s Climate and Health in Oregon report for 2025. These efforts are building resilience against worsening climate-related threats that can cause serious illnesses and death.

For example, Marion County is working with local partners to lower energy costs for older adults through home energy assessments and connect residents with contractors to install heat pumps and home weatherization. Jackson and Josephine counties and partners hosted a health fair in 2025 so more than 800 residents could learn about wildfire smoke risks and preparedness strategies.

“This year’s Climate and Health in Oregon report demonstrates that extreme climate effects continue to be a reality of our daily lives in Oregon,” said Public Health Division Director Naomi Adeline-Biggs. “We must continue supporting communities as they identify new, innovative, equitable approaches to adapting to these hazards and limiting health risks.”

Stark findings

Among the report’s starkest findings: between 2006 and 2025, the estimated number of days with extreme heat nearly doubled; wildfire smoke days tripled; and days with heat and smoke more than quadrupled. Rural counties in eastern, central and southern Oregon were hit hardest, racking up the highest number of extreme heat days, and rural southern and central counties with the highest total days with smoke.

However, wildfire smoke days increased fastest in Oregon’s biggest population centers. Even though Multnomah and Washington counties experience less smoke than other areas, the amount of wildfire‑related particulate matter in the air is now rising on average more quickly in these heavily populated areas than in other parts of the state.

In addition, the state experienced multiple drought periods, with widespread drought in 2015. In 2021, extreme drought affected half the state.

Damaging effects

The effects across Oregon have been damaging, the report shows.

From 2016 to 2025, hospital emergency departments saw spikes in visits for heat-related illnesses and smoke-related, non-infectious respiratory illnesses. Southern, central and eastern Oregon experienced some of the highest annual heat-related illness visit rates from 2016 to 2025. Although regions in western Oregon experienced lower annual heat related illness rates overall, all regions experienced increases during periods of extreme heat.

The report highlights impacts that extend beyond extreme heat and wildfires:

  • Youth mental health: In 2025, results from the 2024 Oregon Student Health Survey showed 71% of Oregon 11th-graders reported experiencing stress about the future due to climate change, and 37% said these feelings negatively affected their lives.
  • Harmful algae blooms: In 2025, OHA investigated 51 suspected harmful algae bloom events, issued 20 freshwater recreational use health advisories, and detected microcystin and saxitoxin levels that exceeded recreational use values.
  • Mosquito-borne disease risk: In 2024 and 2025, routine mosquito surveillance identified Aedes aegypti in Jackson County, a mosquito species predominantly found in tropical and subtropical areas and the primary vector for diseases like dengue and Zika. This species of mosquito had not previously been detected in Oregon.

Communities are adapting

Like Marion, Jackson, and Josephine counties, agencies and organizations are finding new ways to help their communities adapt to climate change.

The Center for African Health and Education, a Portland-based, East African-led organization, used an OHA Public Health Equity grant to hold monthly workshops for the African refugee and immigrant communities on heat, air quality and wildfire smoke safety. It also created a messaging group so people could stay connected and get climate and health-related updates.

Latino Network, an organization focused on culturally specific practices and services, used a Public Health Equity grant to host its annual Conoce tu río, conoce tu comida: Know your river, know your food workshop. Participants exchanged cultural stories, learned about environmental health risks, and discussed ways to protect water and fishing tradition.

Carolina Hernandez, workforce development manager in Latino Network’s Department of Health and Wellness, said culturally specific climate adaptation is critical. “People share the stories of when they were in their counties of origin and how they went to the rivers, how they cook, how they spent days with the entire family sharing their lives and fishing ... We try to give space to the communities so they can do the same here.”

Another climate adaptation project involved OHA’s Youth Advisory Council, a group of 15- to 19-year-olds from across Oregon who provide input on health policies and initiatives related to well-being. Members of the council’s youth data subcommittee analyzed results from the 2024 Student Health Survey to find out how climate change is affecting youth.

Among the findings: stress arises from youth feeling climate change is out of their control and teaching lacks actionable steps or youth-led examples; Latinx, Middle Eastern, North African and Asian youth and those who identify as gender diverse or non-binary reported disproportionate mental health impacts of climate change; and students need mental health support from school counselors and other trusted adults who are knowledgeable about climate change.

“Students were saying the more you understand climate change, the more anxious or stressed you might feel,” said Andres Pineda, who attends Portland State University. “The issue is that students felt like there're not enough resources or different programs available to actually make a difference with climate change, to actually do something about it.”

Olivia Sun, a student at Jesuit High School in Beaverton, said the analysis shows youth are eager to help address climate hazards. “Just an opportunity for youth to be able to learn about it, an opportunity for youth to be able to feel like they're part of the solution,” she said, “would be great in resolving some of the anxiety and helplessness youth feel about climate change.”

Oregon and its partners are taking additional steps to adapt to climate threats. Investments in modernizing the state’s public health system help OHA, the Nine Federally Recognized Tribes of Oregon, local public health authorities and community-based organizations implement programs and policies focused on preparing and responding to more frequent and severe hazards.

Healthy Homes Grant Program funding helped local organizations make home upgrades that reduce health and safety risks, improve indoor conditions and create healthier living environments for low-income individuals and historically underserved communities.

For more information, visit www.healthoregon.org/climate.

As Climate Hazards Increase, Oregon Communities Fight Back - 10/22/26

October 22, 2026

Media contact: Jonathan Modie, [email protected]

As climate hazards increase, Oregon communities fight back

OHA’s annual Climate and Health report shows extreme heat, wildfire smoke, drought are continuing burdens, but local projects are building resilience

PORTLAND, Ore.—Climate hazards are happening with more frequency in Oregon, with more days of extreme heat and wildfire smoke—and, in many areas, combinations of both—than 20 years ago, a new Oregon Health Authority (OHA) report shows.

But communities are fighting back with projects to mitigate the effects on human health, according to the OHA Public Health Division’s Climate and Health in Oregon report for 2025. These efforts are building resilience against worsening climate-related threats that can cause serious illnesses and death.

For example, Marion County is working with local partners to lower energy costs for older adults through home energy assessments and connect residents with contractors to install heat pumps and home weatherization. Jackson and Josephine counties and partners hosted a health fair in 2025 so more than 800 residents could learn about wildfire smoke risks and preparedness strategies.

“This year’s Climate and Health in Oregon report demonstrates that extreme climate effects continue to be a reality of our daily lives in Oregon,” said Public Health Division Director Naomi Adeline-Biggs. “We must continue supporting communities as they identify new, innovative, equitable approaches to adapting to these hazards and limiting health risks.”

Stark findings

Among the report’s starkest findings: between 2006 and 2025, the estimated number of days with extreme heat nearly doubled; wildfire smoke days tripled; and days with heat and smoke more than quadrupled. Rural counties in eastern, central and southern Oregon were hit hardest, racking up the highest number of extreme heat days, and rural southern and central counties with the highest total days with smoke.

However, wildfire smoke days increased fastest in Oregon’s biggest population centers. Even though Multnomah and Washington counties experience less smoke than other areas, the amount of wildfire‑related particulate matter in the air is now rising on average more quickly in these heavily populated areas than in other parts of the state.

In addition, the state experienced multiple drought periods, with widespread drought in 2015. In 2021, extreme drought affected half the state.

Damaging effects

The effects across Oregon have been damaging, the report shows.

From 2016 to 2025, hospital emergency departments saw spikes in visits for heat-related illnesses and smoke-related, non-infectious respiratory illnesses. Southern, central and eastern Oregon experienced some of the highest annual heat-related illness visit rates from 2016 to 2025. Although regions in western Oregon experienced lower annual heat related illness rates overall, all regions experienced increases during periods of extreme heat.

The report highlights impacts that extend beyond extreme heat and wildfires:

  • Youth mental health: In 2025, results from the 2024 Oregon Student Health Survey showed 71% of Oregon 11th-graders reported experiencing stress about the future due to climate change, and 37% said these feelings negatively affected their lives.
  • Harmful algae blooms: In 2025, OHA investigated 51 suspected harmful algae bloom events, issued 20 freshwater recreational use health advisories, and detected microcystin and saxitoxin levels that exceeded recreational use values.
  • Mosquito-borne disease risk: In 2024 and 2025, routine mosquito surveillance identified Aedes aegypti in Jackson County, a mosquito species predominantly found in tropical and subtropical areas and the primary vector for diseases like dengue and Zika. This species of mosquito had not previously been detected in Oregon.

Communities are adapting

Like Marion, Jackson, and Josephine counties, agencies and organizations are finding new ways to help their communities adapt to climate change.

The Center for African Health and Education, a Portland-based, East African-led organization, used an OHA Public Health Equity grant to hold monthly workshops for the African refugee and immigrant communities on heat, air quality and wildfire smoke safety. It also created a messaging group so people could stay connected and get climate and health-related updates.

Latino Network, an organization focused on culturally specific practices and services, used a Public Health Equity grant to host its annual Conoce tu río, conoce tu comida: Know your river, know your food workshop. Participants exchanged cultural stories, learned about environmental health risks, and discussed ways to protect water and fishing tradition.

Carolina Hernandez, workforce development manager in Latino Network’s Department of Health and Wellness, said culturally specific climate adaptation is critical. “People share the stories of when they were in their counties of origin and how they went to the rivers, how they cook, how they spent days with the entire family sharing their lives and fishing ... We try to give space to the communities so they can do the same here.”

Another climate adaptation project involved OHA’s Youth Advisory Council, a group of 15- to 19-year-olds from across Oregon who provide input on health policies and initiatives related to well-being. Members of the council’s youth data subcommittee analyzed results from the 2024 Student Health Survey to find out how climate change is affecting youth.

Among the findings: stress arises from youth feeling climate change is out of their control and teaching lacks actionable steps or youth-led examples; Latinx, Middle Eastern, North African and Asian youth and those who identify as gender diverse or non-binary reported disproportionate mental health impacts of climate change; and students need mental health support from school counselors and other trusted adults who are knowledgeable about climate change.

“Students were saying the more you understand climate change, the more anxious or stressed you might feel,” said Andres Pineda, who attends Portland State University. “The issue is that students felt like there're not enough resources or different programs available to actually make a difference with climate change, to actually do something about it.”

Olivia Sun, a student at Jesuit High School in Beaverton, said the analysis shows youth are eager to help address climate hazards. “Just an opportunity for youth to be able to learn about it, an opportunity for youth to be able to feel like they're part of the solution,” she said, “would be great in resolving some of the anxiety and helplessness youth feel about climate change.”

Oregon and its partners are taking additional steps to adapt to climate threats. Investments in modernizing the state’s public health system help OHA, the Nine Federally Recognized Tribes of Oregon, local public health authorities and community-based organizations implement programs and policies focused on preparing and responding to more frequent and severe hazards.

Healthy Homes Grant Program funding helped local organizations make home upgrades that reduce health and safety risks, improve indoor conditions and create healthier living environments for low-income individuals and historically underserved communities.

For more information, visit www.healthoregon.org/climate.

OHA publishes Final report on health Risks From Crook County Wells - 10/22/26

October 22, 2026 

Media contact: Jonathan Modie, [email protected] 

OHA publishes final report on health risks from Crook County wells

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) has published its final report analyzing health risks related to drinking water from domestic wells near Prineville.

The Environmental Health Assessment Program in OHA’s Public Health Division today published its health consultation report following a two-month public comment period. The report found water in many of the nearly 60 domestic wells tested north of Prineville pose some level of health risk from contaminants—arsenic, nitrates and some coliform bacteria—common in Oregon wells.

In the report, OHA evaluated testing results for water samples and found about half of the wells had detectable levels of lead, which typically is from plumbing. About half also had manganese levels that can cause bad taste, discoloration, and cloudiness. Seven wells had manganese levels high enough to pose health risks to children under 1 year old, were they to drink it.

The report includes recommendations for households to mitigate risk and address well contamination, such as seeking blood lead testing, especially for children; treating their water; and verifying treatment effectiveness with additional testing.

OHA has shared well sampling results and health risk information with affected residents and offered one-on-one consultation with an OHA toxicologist.

The final report is unchanged from the public comment draft OHA released in June 2026, except for the inclusion in the appendix of five comments received during the comment period, along with OHA’s responses to the comments. All the comments were on topics outside the scope of OHA’s analysis and did not result in changes to the report.

OHA recognizes that access to safe drinking water is critical to the health of all people in Oregon. While the agency does not regulate the quality of private well water, it supports domestic well users by directing them to informational resources about well water testing, maintenance, and treatment, and health risks from contaminants.

The Crook County health consultation and supporting materials are on the OHA website at www.oregon.gov/crookcowells.

###

OHA publishes Final report on health Risks From Crook County Wells - 10/22/26

October 22, 2026 

Media contact: Jonathan Modie, [email protected] 

OHA publishes final report on health risks from Crook County wells

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) has published its final report analyzing health risks related to drinking water from domestic wells near Prineville.

The Environmental Health Assessment Program in OHA’s Public Health Division today published its health consultation report following a two-month public comment period. The report found water in many of the nearly 60 domestic wells tested north of Prineville pose some level of health risk from contaminants—arsenic, nitrates and some coliform bacteria—common in Oregon wells.

In the report, OHA evaluated testing results for water samples and found about half of the wells had detectable levels of lead, which typically is from plumbing. About half also had manganese levels that can cause bad taste, discoloration, and cloudiness. Seven wells had manganese levels high enough to pose health risks to children under 1 year old, were they to drink it.

The report includes recommendations for households to mitigate risk and address well contamination, such as seeking blood lead testing, especially for children; treating their water; and verifying treatment effectiveness with additional testing.

OHA has shared well sampling results and health risk information with affected residents and offered one-on-one consultation with an OHA toxicologist.

The final report is unchanged from the public comment draft OHA released in June 2026, except for the inclusion in the appendix of five comments received during the comment period, along with OHA’s responses to the comments. All the comments were on topics outside the scope of OHA’s analysis and did not result in changes to the report.

OHA recognizes that access to safe drinking water is critical to the health of all people in Oregon. While the agency does not regulate the quality of private well water, it supports domestic well users by directing them to informational resources about well water testing, maintenance, and treatment, and health risks from contaminants.

The Crook County health consultation and supporting materials are on the OHA website at www.oregon.gov/crookcowells.

###

Recreational Use Advisory Downgraded To A Precaution For Cullaby Lake - 10/21/26

October 21, 2026

Media contact: Erica Heartquist, [email protected]

Recreational use advisory downgraded to a precaution for Cullaby Lake

Pet owners should continue to keep their pets away from areas that appear to have a bloom

PORTLAND, Ore. – Oregon Health Authority (OHA) has downgraded the recreational use health advisory to a precaution for Cullaby Lake.

OHA issued the advisory Sept. 17.

Water monitoring has confirmed that the level of cyanotoxins in Cullaby Lake are below recreational guideline values for people. However, levels detected are still above OHA’s educational guideline values for dogs, and owners should keep their pets away from areas with blooms.

OHA advises recreational visitors to continually be alert to signs of cyanobacteria blooms. This is because blooms can develop and disappear on any water body at any time when bloom conditions are favorable. Only a fraction of water bodies in Oregon are monitored for blooms and toxins, so it’s important for people to become familiar with the signs of a bloom, and exposure routes and symptoms by visiting OHA’s Cyanobacteria (Harmful Algae) Blooms website at http://www.healthoregon.org/hab.

When recreating, people, and especially small children, and pets should avoid areas where the water is foamy, scummy, thick like paint, pea-green or blue-green, or if thick brownish-red mats are visible or bright green clumps are suspended in the water. If you see these signs, avoid activities such as swimming or motorized or non-motorized boating activities that cause you to swallow water or inhale droplets, and keep pets out of the area.

Cyanotoxins can still exist in clear water. When a bloom dies, toxins released may reach into clear water around the bloom. Blooms can be pushed into other areas, leaving toxins behind. There also are species of cyanobacteria that anchor themselves at the bottom of a water body, live in the sediment, or can grow on aquatic plants and release toxins into clear water.

For health information or to report an illness, contact OHA at 971-673-0482, or visit OHA’s Cyanobacteria (Harmful Algae) Blooms website.

###

Recreational Use Advisory Downgraded To A Precaution For Cullaby Lake - 10/21/26

October 21, 2026

Media contact: Erica Heartquist, [email protected]

Recreational use advisory downgraded to a precaution for Cullaby Lake

Pet owners should continue to keep their pets away from areas that appear to have a bloom

PORTLAND, Ore. – Oregon Health Authority (OHA) has downgraded the recreational use health advisory to a precaution for Cullaby Lake.

OHA issued the advisory Sept. 17.

Water monitoring has confirmed that the level of cyanotoxins in Cullaby Lake are below recreational guideline values for people. However, levels detected are still above OHA’s educational guideline values for dogs, and owners should keep their pets away from areas with blooms.

OHA advises recreational visitors to continually be alert to signs of cyanobacteria blooms. This is because blooms can develop and disappear on any water body at any time when bloom conditions are favorable. Only a fraction of water bodies in Oregon are monitored for blooms and toxins, so it’s important for people to become familiar with the signs of a bloom, and exposure routes and symptoms by visiting OHA’s Cyanobacteria (Harmful Algae) Blooms website at http://www.healthoregon.org/hab.

When recreating, people, and especially small children, and pets should avoid areas where the water is foamy, scummy, thick like paint, pea-green or blue-green, or if thick brownish-red mats are visible or bright green clumps are suspended in the water. If you see these signs, avoid activities such as swimming or motorized or non-motorized boating activities that cause you to swallow water or inhale droplets, and keep pets out of the area.

Cyanotoxins can still exist in clear water. When a bloom dies, toxins released may reach into clear water around the bloom. Blooms can be pushed into other areas, leaving toxins behind. There also are species of cyanobacteria that anchor themselves at the bottom of a water body, live in the sediment, or can grow on aquatic plants and release toxins into clear water.

For health information or to report an illness, contact OHA at 971-673-0482, or visit OHA’s Cyanobacteria (Harmful Algae) Blooms website.

###

Oregon Health Plan Rates For 2027 Released - 10/19/26

October 19, 2026

Contact: Franny White, [email protected], 971-349-3539

Oregon Health Plan rates for 2027 released

SALEM, Ore. – Oregon Health Authority (OHA) and the 15 coordinated care organizations (CCOs) that facilitate Medicaid health benefits in Oregon have successfully worked together to confirm 2027 rates for the Oregon Health Plan (OHP) that will keep healthcare accessible statewide.

Next year, CCOs will collectively receive an average of 6.1% more per member per month compared to this year.

“Oregon Health Authority remains focused on ensuring people enrolled in the Oregon Health Plan can receive quality healthcare well into the future,” said OHA Chief Financial Officer Rochelle Layton. “Our updated 2027 rates support the financial stability of the coordinated care organizations that help us deliver Medicaid benefits across the state.”

OHP covers about 1.4 million people, including low-income adults, children, pregnant women, elderly adults, and people with disabilities. Medicaid is administered by states according to federal requirements, and the program is jointly funded by states and the federal government.

OHA contracts with CCOs to coordinate regional healthcare needs for the vast majority of OHP members. OHA primarily pays CCOs through per-member-per-month payments, which are also known as capitation rates. 

Multiple factors were considered during the 2027 rate-setting process, including people losing coverage due to upcoming federal changes, rising healthcare costs, and ongoing changes to covered benefits and payment policies. State and federal rules require CCO rates to be designed to deliver enough revenue to cover expected costs.

When discussing 2027 rates, OHA is separating out the state’s one-time financial investment in maternity care, which temporarily increased CCO payments in 2026. Showing next year’s overall CCO rates without maternity care enables more accurate rate comparisons over time.

Without the maternity care payments, Oregon CCOs will receive an average of 6.1% more per member per month next year. However, when maternity payments are included, 2027 rates increase an average of 5.6% over 2026. As a result, CCOs will receive an average of $627.68 per member per month in 2027 to coordinate the medical, dental, and behavioral healthcare services for most of the state’s Medicaid enrollees next year.

OHA developed 2027 rates after analyzing CCO financial data from 2025 and early 2026. As was reported earlier, Oregon CCOs collectively had a profit margin of 0.8% in 2025, which was an improvement from just 0.001% in 2024. Preliminary data for early 2026 indicates CCO finances have continued to improve.

During the 2027 rate-setting process, OHA increased its collaboration with CCOs and improved public transparency as required by Oregon House Bill 4039, which became law in March and directed OHA to use a more transparent, data-driven process while developing CCO rates. OHA staff gave two Oregon Health Policy Board presentations before rates had been finalized, increased the amount of time CCOs had to review draft rates, met with CCOs more often during the rate-setting process, and released additional exhibits required by the new law.

OHA has submitted the proposed 2027 CCO rates to the U.S. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid, which is expected to approve them by the end of this calendar year. For more information, see the draft 2027 CCO capitation rate development & certification report.

###

Oregon Health Plan Rates For 2027 Released - 10/19/26

October 19, 2026

Contact: Franny White, [email protected], 971-349-3539

Oregon Health Plan rates for 2027 released

SALEM, Ore. – Oregon Health Authority (OHA) and the 15 coordinated care organizations (CCOs) that facilitate Medicaid health benefits in Oregon have successfully worked together to confirm 2027 rates for the Oregon Health Plan (OHP) that will keep healthcare accessible statewide.

Next year, CCOs will collectively receive an average of 6.1% more per member per month compared to this year.

“Oregon Health Authority remains focused on ensuring people enrolled in the Oregon Health Plan can receive quality healthcare well into the future,” said OHA Chief Financial Officer Rochelle Layton. “Our updated 2027 rates support the financial stability of the coordinated care organizations that help us deliver Medicaid benefits across the state.”

OHP covers about 1.4 million people, including low-income adults, children, pregnant women, elderly adults, and people with disabilities. Medicaid is administered by states according to federal requirements, and the program is jointly funded by states and the federal government.

OHA contracts with CCOs to coordinate regional healthcare needs for the vast majority of OHP members. OHA primarily pays CCOs through per-member-per-month payments, which are also known as capitation rates. 

Multiple factors were considered during the 2027 rate-setting process, including people losing coverage due to upcoming federal changes, rising healthcare costs, and ongoing changes to covered benefits and payment policies. State and federal rules require CCO rates to be designed to deliver enough revenue to cover expected costs.

When discussing 2027 rates, OHA is separating out the state’s one-time financial investment in maternity care, which temporarily increased CCO payments in 2026. Showing next year’s overall CCO rates without maternity care enables more accurate rate comparisons over time.

Without the maternity care payments, Oregon CCOs will receive an average of 6.1% more per member per month next year. However, when maternity payments are included, 2027 rates increase an average of 5.6% over 2026. As a result, CCOs will receive an average of $627.68 per member per month in 2027 to coordinate the medical, dental, and behavioral healthcare services for most of the state’s Medicaid enrollees next year.

OHA developed 2027 rates after analyzing CCO financial data from 2025 and early 2026. As was reported earlier, Oregon CCOs collectively had a profit margin of 0.8% in 2025, which was an improvement from just 0.001% in 2024. Preliminary data for early 2026 indicates CCO finances have continued to improve.

During the 2027 rate-setting process, OHA increased its collaboration with CCOs and improved public transparency as required by Oregon House Bill 4039, which became law in March and directed OHA to use a more transparent, data-driven process while developing CCO rates. OHA staff gave two Oregon Health Policy Board presentations before rates had been finalized, increased the amount of time CCOs had to review draft rates, met with CCOs more often during the rate-setting process, and released additional exhibits required by the new law.

OHA has submitted the proposed 2027 CCO rates to the U.S. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid, which is expected to approve them by the end of this calendar year. For more information, see the draft 2027 CCO capitation rate development & certification report.

###

Explore Health Launches Tool To Help People Navigate Health Coverage Options For 2027 | Explore Health Lanza Herramienta Para Ayudar A Las Personas A Entender Y Elegir Sus Opciones De Cobertura Médica Para 2027 - 10/15/26

October 15, 2026

Contact: Amy Coven (503-943-0164, [email protected])

Explore Health launches tool to help people navigate health coverage options for 2027

Plan Guide will help people in Oregon find financial help, compare health plans.

SALEM, Ore. — People in Oregon can now get an early look at their health coverage options for 2027 with the launch of the Explore Health Plan Guide, a new online tool designed to help people prepare for Open Enrollment.

The Plan Guide helps users explore individual health and dental plans available in their area and compare costs, benefits and coverage. Users can also enter their prescription medications and doctors to see which plans may best meet their health needs.

The tool provides an assessment for potential eligibility for Oregon Health Plan (OHP) benefits and financial help through the Marketplace, including an estimate of the amount of financial assistance someone may qualify for.

“Choosing health insurance can feel overwhelming, especially when plans and coverage options are changing,” said Chiqui Flowers, director of the Oregon Health Insurance Marketplace. “The Plan Guide gives you a chance to explore options before Open Enrollment begins so you can better understand what coverage and financial help may be available.”

The new tool is especially timely for 2027. Providence and PacificSource will no longer offer individual health plans in Oregon, and Moda will  only be available in select counties. The Plan Guide can help people affected by these changes understand which plans are available in their area and compare their options before selecting coverage.

Explore Health is available for people in Oregon who do not have access to affordable health coverage through their job and are not eligible for public medical programs such as the Oregon Health Plan.

Open Enrollment for 2027 health coverage runs from Nov. 1, 2026 to Jan. 15, 2027. The Plan Guide is available now to help people explore their options ahead of Open Enrollment. Using the tool does not enroll someone in coverage.

Explore Health is Oregon’s new state-based health insurance marketplace. Starting with the 2027 plan year, eligible individuals and families will be able to use Explore Health to shop for and enroll in Marketplace health coverage.

To explore the Plan Guide or learn more about Open Enrollment, visit ExploreHealthOR.gov. People in Oregon can also make an appointment with an Enrollment Partner for help understanding their options and enrolling in coverage.

###

15 de octubre de 2026

Contacto: Amy Coven, 503-943-0164, [email protected]

Explore Health lanza herramienta para ayudar a las personas a entender y elegir sus opciones de cobertura médica para 2027

La Guía de Planes ayudará a los habitantes de Oregon a encontrar ayuda financiera y comparar planes de salud.

SALEM, Ore. — Los habitantes de Oregon ya pueden obtener una vista previa de sus opciones de cobertura médica para 2027 con el lanzamiento de la Guía de Planes de Explore Health, una nueva herramienta en línea diseñada para ayudar a las personas a prepararse para el periodo de Inscripción Abierta.

La Guía de Planes ayuda a las personas a explorar los planes médicos y dentales individuales disponibles en su zona, así como a comparar costos, beneficios y coberturas. También pueden ingresar información sobre sus medicamentos recetados y sus médicos para determinar qué planes se ajustan mejor a sus necesidades de salud.

La herramienta ofrece una evaluación de la posible elegibilidad para los beneficios del Plan de Salud de Oregon (OHP) y para recibir ayuda financiera a través del Mercado de Seguros, incluyendo una estimación de cuánta ayuda financiera que alguien podría recibir.

"Elegir un seguro médico puede resultar abrumador, especialmente cuando los planes y las opciones de cobertura cambian constantemente", señaló Chiqui Flowers, directora del Mercado de Seguros Médicos de Oregon. "La Guía de Planes brinda a las personas la oportunidad de explorar opciones antes de que comience la inscripción abierta, para que comprendan mejor qué coberturas y ayuda financiera podrían estar disponibles".

Esta nueva herramienta llega en un momento especialmente importante para 2027. Providence y PacificSource dejarán de ofrecer planes de salud individuales en Oregon, y Moda solo estará disponible en algunos condados. La Guía de Planes puede ayudar a las personas afectadas por estos cambios a entender qué planes están disponibles en su área y comparar sus opciones antes de elegir una cobertura.

Explore Health está disponible para los habitantes de Oregon que no tienen acceso a una cobertura médica asequible a través de su empleo y que no reúnen los requisitos para programas públicos de salud, como el Plan de Salud de Oregon.

El periodo de inscripción abierta para la cobertura de salud de 2027 será del 1 de noviembre de 2026 al 15 de enero de 2027. La Guía de Planes ya está disponible para que las personas puedan revisar sus opciones antes de que inicie la inscripción abierta. Usar esta herramienta no inscribe a nadie automáticamente en un plan de salud.

Explore Health es el nuevo mercado estatal de seguros médicos de Oregon. A partir del año del plan 2027, las personas y familias elegibles podrán utilizar Explore Health para buscar y elegir su cobertura de salud del Mercado.

Para explorar la Guía de Planes u obtener más información sobre la Inscripción Abierta, visite Espanol.ExploreHealthOR.gov. Las personas en Oregon también pueden programar una cita con un Socio de Inscripción para recibir ayuda para entender sus opciones y completar su inscripción.

###

Explore Health Launches Tool To Help People Navigate Health Coverage Options For 2027 | Explore Health Lanza Herramienta Para Ayudar A Las Personas A Entender Y Elegir Sus Opciones De Cobertura Médica Para 2027 - 10/15/26

October 15, 2026

Contact: Amy Coven (503-943-0164, [email protected])

Explore Health launches tool to help people navigate health coverage options for 2027

Plan Guide will help people in Oregon find financial help, compare health plans.

SALEM, Ore. — People in Oregon can now get an early look at their health coverage options for 2027 with the launch of the Explore Health Plan Guide, a new online tool designed to help people prepare for Open Enrollment.

The Plan Guide helps users explore individual health and dental plans available in their area and compare costs, benefits and coverage. Users can also enter their prescription medications and doctors to see which plans may best meet their health needs.

The tool provides an assessment for potential eligibility for Oregon Health Plan (OHP) benefits and financial help through the Marketplace, including an estimate of the amount of financial assistance someone may qualify for.

“Choosing health insurance can feel overwhelming, especially when plans and coverage options are changing,” said Chiqui Flowers, director of the Oregon Health Insurance Marketplace. “The Plan Guide gives you a chance to explore options before Open Enrollment begins so you can better understand what coverage and financial help may be available.”

The new tool is especially timely for 2027. Providence and PacificSource will no longer offer individual health plans in Oregon, and Moda will  only be available in select counties. The Plan Guide can help people affected by these changes understand which plans are available in their area and compare their options before selecting coverage.

Explore Health is available for people in Oregon who do not have access to affordable health coverage through their job and are not eligible for public medical programs such as the Oregon Health Plan.

Open Enrollment for 2027 health coverage runs from Nov. 1, 2026 to Jan. 15, 2027. The Plan Guide is available now to help people explore their options ahead of Open Enrollment. Using the tool does not enroll someone in coverage.

Explore Health is Oregon’s new state-based health insurance marketplace. Starting with the 2027 plan year, eligible individuals and families will be able to use Explore Health to shop for and enroll in Marketplace health coverage.

To explore the Plan Guide or learn more about Open Enrollment, visit ExploreHealthOR.gov. People in Oregon can also make an appointment with an Enrollment Partner for help understanding their options and enrolling in coverage.

###

15 de octubre de 2026

Contacto: Amy Coven, 503-943-0164, [email protected]

Explore Health lanza herramienta para ayudar a las personas a entender y elegir sus opciones de cobertura médica para 2027

La Guía de Planes ayudará a los habitantes de Oregon a encontrar ayuda financiera y comparar planes de salud.

SALEM, Ore. — Los habitantes de Oregon ya pueden obtener una vista previa de sus opciones de cobertura médica para 2027 con el lanzamiento de la Guía de Planes de Explore Health, una nueva herramienta en línea diseñada para ayudar a las personas a prepararse para el periodo de Inscripción Abierta.

La Guía de Planes ayuda a las personas a explorar los planes médicos y dentales individuales disponibles en su zona, así como a comparar costos, beneficios y coberturas. También pueden ingresar información sobre sus medicamentos recetados y sus médicos para determinar qué planes se ajustan mejor a sus necesidades de salud.

La herramienta ofrece una evaluación de la posible elegibilidad para los beneficios del Plan de Salud de Oregon (OHP) y para recibir ayuda financiera a través del Mercado de Seguros, incluyendo una estimación de cuánta ayuda financiera que alguien podría recibir.

"Elegir un seguro médico puede resultar abrumador, especialmente cuando los planes y las opciones de cobertura cambian constantemente", señaló Chiqui Flowers, directora del Mercado de Seguros Médicos de Oregon. "La Guía de Planes brinda a las personas la oportunidad de explorar opciones antes de que comience la inscripción abierta, para que comprendan mejor qué coberturas y ayuda financiera podrían estar disponibles".

Esta nueva herramienta llega en un momento especialmente importante para 2027. Providence y PacificSource dejarán de ofrecer planes de salud individuales en Oregon, y Moda solo estará disponible en algunos condados. La Guía de Planes puede ayudar a las personas afectadas por estos cambios a entender qué planes están disponibles en su área y comparar sus opciones antes de elegir una cobertura.

Explore Health está disponible para los habitantes de Oregon que no tienen acceso a una cobertura médica asequible a través de su empleo y que no reúnen los requisitos para programas públicos de salud, como el Plan de Salud de Oregon.

El periodo de inscripción abierta para la cobertura de salud de 2027 será del 1 de noviembre de 2026 al 15 de enero de 2027. La Guía de Planes ya está disponible para que las personas puedan revisar sus opciones antes de que inicie la inscripción abierta. Usar esta herramienta no inscribe a nadie automáticamente en un plan de salud.

Explore Health es el nuevo mercado estatal de seguros médicos de Oregon. A partir del año del plan 2027, las personas y familias elegibles podrán utilizar Explore Health para buscar y elegir su cobertura de salud del Mercado.

Para explorar la Guía de Planes u obtener más información sobre la Inscripción Abierta, visite Espanol.ExploreHealthOR.gov. Las personas en Oregon también pueden programar una cita con un Socio de Inscripción para recibir ayuda para entender sus opciones y completar su inscripción.

###

Medicaid Advisory Committee Accepting Applications - 10/13/26

October 13, 2026

Media Contact: Kristen Lambert, [email protected]

Medicaid Advisory Committee Accepting Applications

What: OHA’s Medicaid Advisory Committee (MAC) is recruiting for three (3) open committee positions:

  • A physician licensed under ORS chapter 677 (preferably primary care); and
  • Two members of the general public

When: Apply by November 6, 2026, for early consideration. Positions will be appointed in early January 2027.

About: Ideal candidates are committed to eliminating inequities and improving health care access and quality for Oregonians who are enrolled in Oregon’s Medicaid program, the Oregon Health Plan (OHP). MAC members are selected by the director of Oregon Health Authority (OHA) and appointed by the Governor to serve one, three-year term. People from all areas of the state are encouraged to apply.

The MAC is a federally mandated body that advises the Oregon Health Policy Board, OHA, and the Oregon Department of Human Services about the operation of Oregon's Medicaid program.

Key responsibilities & time commitment:

  • Attending at least 80 percent of committee meetings, which are held eight times each year (attendance can be virtual), from 9 a.m. to noon on the last Wednesday of Jan., Feb., April, May (retreat, extended to 2 p.m.), June, Sept., Oct., and the first Wednesday in Dec.
  • Engaging in policy-level discussions about health care in Oregon
  • Working to elevate the voices and perspectives of OHP members, providers and other partners
  • Spending approximately one to two additional hours each month to prepare for meetings. For more information and materials from previous meetings, please visit the MAC’s website.

Compensation and travel reimbursement are available for eligible members.

How to Apply:

If you are interested in working to improve Oregon’s Medicaid program through the work of the MAC, please go to the appropriate application below.

External - New Applicants

  • New applicants please apply externally HERE
    • You will be instructed to create a Workday profile using an email and password
    • Sign in, search for Medicaid Advisory Committee, and select the Apply button
  • Detailed guidance on how to apply externally can be found - HERE

Internal – New Applicants

Applicants who are already board members applying for reappointment or would like to apply for another board, and/or current state workers, please apply internally:

  • Log into Workday – HERE
    • On the homepage, click on Menu and then select
    • Click on Internal – Find
    • Search for Medicaid Advisory Committee and select the Apply
  • Detailed guidance on how to apply internally can also be found – HERE

Only complete applications will be considered. A complete application consists of: contact information, short personal bio, responses to application questions, demographic information, uploaded resume, background check questions*, voluntary disclosures, and additional tasks (prompted by Workday).

*Applicants are subject to a background check, and additional vetting may apply for some board positions. Notifying us about something in your past does not necessarily mean that you cannot or will not be appointed; but, it is important that you disclose this information in the beginning of the process. Please ensure your fiscal responsibilities are in order when applying. Non-compliant issues may delay or jeopardize your potential appointment.

Contact: If you have questions, please contact Sarah Wetherson ([email protected], 503-793-1920).

You can get this document in other languages, large print, braille or a format you prefer free of charge. Contact [email protected] or 971-304-9642. We accept all relay calls. 

###

Medicaid Advisory Committee Accepting Applications - 10/13/26

October 13, 2026

Media Contact: Kristen Lambert, [email protected]

Medicaid Advisory Committee Accepting Applications

What: OHA’s Medicaid Advisory Committee (MAC) is recruiting for three (3) open committee positions:

  • A physician licensed under ORS chapter 677 (preferably primary care); and
  • Two members of the general public

When: Apply by November 6, 2026, for early consideration. Positions will be appointed in early January 2027.

About: Ideal candidates are committed to eliminating inequities and improving health care access and quality for Oregonians who are enrolled in Oregon’s Medicaid program, the Oregon Health Plan (OHP). MAC members are selected by the director of Oregon Health Authority (OHA) and appointed by the Governor to serve one, three-year term. People from all areas of the state are encouraged to apply.

The MAC is a federally mandated body that advises the Oregon Health Policy Board, OHA, and the Oregon Department of Human Services about the operation of Oregon's Medicaid program.

Key responsibilities & time commitment:

  • Attending at least 80 percent of committee meetings, which are held eight times each year (attendance can be virtual), from 9 a.m. to noon on the last Wednesday of Jan., Feb., April, May (retreat, extended to 2 p.m.), June, Sept., Oct., and the first Wednesday in Dec.
  • Engaging in policy-level discussions about health care in Oregon
  • Working to elevate the voices and perspectives of OHP members, providers and other partners
  • Spending approximately one to two additional hours each month to prepare for meetings. For more information and materials from previous meetings, please visit the MAC’s website.

Compensation and travel reimbursement are available for eligible members.

How to Apply:

If you are interested in working to improve Oregon’s Medicaid program through the work of the MAC, please go to the appropriate application below.

External - New Applicants

  • New applicants please apply externally HERE
    • You will be instructed to create a Workday profile using an email and password
    • Sign in, search for Medicaid Advisory Committee, and select the Apply button
  • Detailed guidance on how to apply externally can be found - HERE

Internal – New Applicants

Applicants who are already board members applying for reappointment or would like to apply for another board, and/or current state workers, please apply internally:

  • Log into Workday – HERE
    • On the homepage, click on Menu and then select
    • Click on Internal – Find
    • Search for Medicaid Advisory Committee and select the Apply
  • Detailed guidance on how to apply internally can also be found – HERE

Only complete applications will be considered. A complete application consists of: contact information, short personal bio, responses to application questions, demographic information, uploaded resume, background check questions*, voluntary disclosures, and additional tasks (prompted by Workday).

*Applicants are subject to a background check, and additional vetting may apply for some board positions. Notifying us about something in your past does not necessarily mean that you cannot or will not be appointed; but, it is important that you disclose this information in the beginning of the process. Please ensure your fiscal responsibilities are in order when applying. Non-compliant issues may delay or jeopardize your potential appointment.

Contact: If you have questions, please contact Sarah Wetherson ([email protected], 503-793-1920).

You can get this document in other languages, large print, braille or a format you prefer free of charge. Contact [email protected] or 971-304-9642. We accept all relay calls. 

###

Oregon Meets Tobacco Reduction Goals, But Disparities, Rising Adult Vaping Highlight Challenges - 10/07/26

October 7, 2026 

Media contact: Erica Heartquist, [email protected]

Oregon meets tobacco reduction goals, but disparities, rising adult vaping highlight challenges

Portland, OR - Oregon has made significant progress in reducing tobacco use, meeting or exceeding all three tobacco-reduction goals established for 2017–2025, according to a new Oregon Health Authority (OHA) report.

The report, Evaluating the Impact of Statewide Policies on Tobacco Use and Sales, examines trends in tobacco use and sales before and after Oregon implemented three major statewide tobacco policies: Tobacco 21, which raised the legal minimum age to purchase tobacco and nicotine products; increased tobacco taxes through Ballot Measure 108; and Tobacco Retail Licensing, which requires Oregon retailers to obtain a license to sell tobacco and nicotine products.

The report found:

  • Youth cigarette smoking declined substantially. In 2024, 1% of Oregon eighth graders and 2.8% of 11th graders reported current cigarette use, down from 4.3% and 8.8%, respectively, in 2015.
  • Adult cigarette smoking declined. The percentage of Oregon adults who smoked cigarettes fell from 17.1% in 2016 to 11% in 2024, exceeding the state goal of 13.3%.
  • Cigarette sales declined. Annual per-capita cigarette sales fell from 38.3 packs in 2016 to 21 packs in 2024, surpassing the state goal of 34 or fewer packs per person.
  • Youth e-cigarette use declined. Current e-cigarette use among eighth graders fell from 9.3% in 2015 to 4.1% in 2024; among 11th graders, it fell from 17.1% to 9%.
  • Adult e-cigarette use increased through 2023 before declining in 2024. E-cigarette use and sales among adults increased over much of the evaluation period, highlighting the changing tobacco and nicotine market.

Tobacco use remains one of the leading preventable causes of death and disease in Oregon, so these declines represent meaningful progress,” said Dean Sidelinger, M.D., M.S.Ed., health officer and state epidemiologist.

“At the same time, we know that not everyone in Oregon has benefited equally from that progress. Continuing to reduce tobacco-related disease will require sustained attention to the communities most affected and to the rapidly changing nicotine marketplace.”

Progress, but persistent disparities

Among youth, higher tobacco use was reported among some gender-non-conforming youth and American Indian/Alaska Native and North African/Middle Eastern youth. Among adults, tobacco use remained higher among Black/African American and American Indian/Alaska Native adults, bisexual adults, people with less than a college education, people with lower incomes, and people who were unemployed or unable to work.

The report recommends continued investment in tobacco prevention and cessation, particularly for communities experiencing higher rates of tobacco use.

Overall evaluation findings

Tobacco Retail Licensing, effective Jan. 1, 2022, required businesses that sell tobacco and inhalant-delivery systems to obtain a license through the Oregon Department of Revenue (DOR). OHA’s Tobacco Retail Licensing Program works with DOR to monitor tobacco retailers and ensure they are held accountable to tobacco sales laws.

The evaluation found changes in tobacco use and sales associated with the period in which these policies were implemented. However, the report cautions that the findings do not establish that the policies caused the observed changes.

The full evaluation: Evaluating the Impact of Statewide Policies on Tobacco Use and Sales is available here.

###

Oregon Meets Tobacco Reduction Goals, But Disparities, Rising Adult Vaping Highlight Challenges - 10/07/26

October 7, 2026 

Media contact: Erica Heartquist, [email protected]

Oregon meets tobacco reduction goals, but disparities, rising adult vaping highlight challenges

Portland, OR - Oregon has made significant progress in reducing tobacco use, meeting or exceeding all three tobacco-reduction goals established for 2017–2025, according to a new Oregon Health Authority (OHA) report.

The report, Evaluating the Impact of Statewide Policies on Tobacco Use and Sales, examines trends in tobacco use and sales before and after Oregon implemented three major statewide tobacco policies: Tobacco 21, which raised the legal minimum age to purchase tobacco and nicotine products; increased tobacco taxes through Ballot Measure 108; and Tobacco Retail Licensing, which requires Oregon retailers to obtain a license to sell tobacco and nicotine products.

The report found:

  • Youth cigarette smoking declined substantially. In 2024, 1% of Oregon eighth graders and 2.8% of 11th graders reported current cigarette use, down from 4.3% and 8.8%, respectively, in 2015.
  • Adult cigarette smoking declined. The percentage of Oregon adults who smoked cigarettes fell from 17.1% in 2016 to 11% in 2024, exceeding the state goal of 13.3%.
  • Cigarette sales declined. Annual per-capita cigarette sales fell from 38.3 packs in 2016 to 21 packs in 2024, surpassing the state goal of 34 or fewer packs per person.
  • Youth e-cigarette use declined. Current e-cigarette use among eighth graders fell from 9.3% in 2015 to 4.1% in 2024; among 11th graders, it fell from 17.1% to 9%.
  • Adult e-cigarette use increased through 2023 before declining in 2024. E-cigarette use and sales among adults increased over much of the evaluation period, highlighting the changing tobacco and nicotine market.

Tobacco use remains one of the leading preventable causes of death and disease in Oregon, so these declines represent meaningful progress,” said Dean Sidelinger, M.D., M.S.Ed., health officer and state epidemiologist.

“At the same time, we know that not everyone in Oregon has benefited equally from that progress. Continuing to reduce tobacco-related disease will require sustained attention to the communities most affected and to the rapidly changing nicotine marketplace.”

Progress, but persistent disparities

Among youth, higher tobacco use was reported among some gender-non-conforming youth and American Indian/Alaska Native and North African/Middle Eastern youth. Among adults, tobacco use remained higher among Black/African American and American Indian/Alaska Native adults, bisexual adults, people with less than a college education, people with lower incomes, and people who were unemployed or unable to work.

The report recommends continued investment in tobacco prevention and cessation, particularly for communities experiencing higher rates of tobacco use.

Overall evaluation findings

Tobacco Retail Licensing, effective Jan. 1, 2022, required businesses that sell tobacco and inhalant-delivery systems to obtain a license through the Oregon Department of Revenue (DOR). OHA’s Tobacco Retail Licensing Program works with DOR to monitor tobacco retailers and ensure they are held accountable to tobacco sales laws.

The evaluation found changes in tobacco use and sales associated with the period in which these policies were implemented. However, the report cautions that the findings do not establish that the policies caused the observed changes.

The full evaluation: Evaluating the Impact of Statewide Policies on Tobacco Use and Sales is available here.

###

Oregon To Begin Enrollment In Nationwide Newborn Genomic Screening Research Study - 10/05/26

October 5, 2026

Media contact: Jonathan Modie, [email protected]  

Oregon to begin enrollment in nationwide newborn genomic screening research study

Recruitment to take place at PeaceHealth-Eugene and Oregon Health & Science University, along with statewide outreach 

PORTLAND, Ore.—The Northwest Regional Newborn Bloodspot Screening (NWRNBS) Program and BRIDGES-NBS today announced enrollment will begin soon for a national research study evaluating whether genome sequencing can be responsibly added to routine newborn screening. 

Recruitment in Oregon, one of seven participating states and territories, will take place through in-person outreach at PeaceHealth-Eugene and Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU). In addition, families across the state can learn about the study and choose to self-enroll. 

“Partnership with BRIDGES-NBS will allow the Northwest Regional Newborn Bloodspot Screening Program to explore a new method for identifying hundreds of genetic conditions in the newborn period, where early detection, monitoring, and treatment can lead to improved outcomes,” said Patrice Held, Ph.D., Newborn Screening Program manager at the Oregon State Public Health Laboratory.  

“Genome sequencing has the promise to transform the field of newborn screening from a small panel of 46 conditions to more than 700 conditions,” Held said. 

BRIDGES-NBS is the nation's first coordinated, multi-state genomic newborn screening effort. The study will assess the feasibility of integrating genome sequencing into existing state public health newborn screening programs, exploring how public health, genomic sequencing, and clinical care can work better together for newborns and their families. 

Genome sequencing for newborn screening starts with a small blood sample from the baby. The laboratory uses the sample to look for specific genetic changes that may be associated with certain health conditions. The goal is to identify genetic changes that could indicate that a baby may need additional testing or follow-up care.   

Participation in BRIDGES-NBS is voluntary, at no cost to families, and requires informed consent from a parent or legal guardian. The study uses the same dried bloodspot (heel prick) sample already collected for routine newborn screening, so no additional sample is needed. BRIDGES-NBS complements, and does not alter or replace, existing newborn screening services. 

BRIDGES-NBS will test for about 800 conditions that are actionable in the first year of life, allowing monitoring and treatment to begin before a child's first birthday. GeneDx, the study's integrated laboratory partner, will perform the genome sequencing and interpretation. The project will recruit, obtain consent for, and enroll up to 30,000 newborns during a two-year period across all seven participating programs (Iowa, Minnesota, New York, Oregon, Puerto Rico, South Carolina, and Texas). The study will also evaluate the ethical, legal, and social implications of genetic testing, guided by a community advisory board.  

About the NWRNBS Program 

The Northwest Regional Newborn Bloodspot Screening (NWRNBS) Program is designed to identify newborns affected by specific medical conditions in time to prevent impairment. The program is embedded in the Oregon State Public Health Laboratory, a section of the Oregon Health Authority’s Public Health Division.  

For more information, visit the Northwest Regional Newborn Bloodspot Screening (NWRNBS) Program webpage or watch a family-centered video.   

###

 

Oregon To Begin Enrollment In Nationwide Newborn Genomic Screening Research Study - 10/05/26

October 5, 2026

Media contact: Jonathan Modie, [email protected]  

Oregon to begin enrollment in nationwide newborn genomic screening research study

Recruitment to take place at PeaceHealth-Eugene and Oregon Health & Science University, along with statewide outreach 

PORTLAND, Ore.—The Northwest Regional Newborn Bloodspot Screening (NWRNBS) Program and BRIDGES-NBS today announced enrollment will begin soon for a national research study evaluating whether genome sequencing can be responsibly added to routine newborn screening. 

Recruitment in Oregon, one of seven participating states and territories, will take place through in-person outreach at PeaceHealth-Eugene and Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU). In addition, families across the state can learn about the study and choose to self-enroll. 

“Partnership with BRIDGES-NBS will allow the Northwest Regional Newborn Bloodspot Screening Program to explore a new method for identifying hundreds of genetic conditions in the newborn period, where early detection, monitoring, and treatment can lead to improved outcomes,” said Patrice Held, Ph.D., Newborn Screening Program manager at the Oregon State Public Health Laboratory.  

“Genome sequencing has the promise to transform the field of newborn screening from a small panel of 46 conditions to more than 700 conditions,” Held said. 

BRIDGES-NBS is the nation's first coordinated, multi-state genomic newborn screening effort. The study will assess the feasibility of integrating genome sequencing into existing state public health newborn screening programs, exploring how public health, genomic sequencing, and clinical care can work better together for newborns and their families. 

Genome sequencing for newborn screening starts with a small blood sample from the baby. The laboratory uses the sample to look for specific genetic changes that may be associated with certain health conditions. The goal is to identify genetic changes that could indicate that a baby may need additional testing or follow-up care.   

Participation in BRIDGES-NBS is voluntary, at no cost to families, and requires informed consent from a parent or legal guardian. The study uses the same dried bloodspot (heel prick) sample already collected for routine newborn screening, so no additional sample is needed. BRIDGES-NBS complements, and does not alter or replace, existing newborn screening services. 

BRIDGES-NBS will test for about 800 conditions that are actionable in the first year of life, allowing monitoring and treatment to begin before a child's first birthday. GeneDx, the study's integrated laboratory partner, will perform the genome sequencing and interpretation. The project will recruit, obtain consent for, and enroll up to 30,000 newborns during a two-year period across all seven participating programs (Iowa, Minnesota, New York, Oregon, Puerto Rico, South Carolina, and Texas). The study will also evaluate the ethical, legal, and social implications of genetic testing, guided by a community advisory board.  

About the NWRNBS Program 

The Northwest Regional Newborn Bloodspot Screening (NWRNBS) Program is designed to identify newborns affected by specific medical conditions in time to prevent impairment. The program is embedded in the Oregon State Public Health Laboratory, a section of the Oregon Health Authority’s Public Health Division.  

For more information, visit the Northwest Regional Newborn Bloodspot Screening (NWRNBS) Program webpage or watch a family-centered video.   

###

 

Sunset Bay State Park Beach Health Advisory Lifted Oct 2 - 10/02/26

October 2, 2026

Media contacts: Erica Heartquist, [email protected]

Sunset Bay State Park Beach health advisory lifted Oct 2

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) today lifted a public health advisory for contact with ocean water at Sunset Bay State Park Beach, located in Coos County.

The health authority issued the advisory September 30, after water samples showed higher-than-normal levels of fecal bacteria in ocean waters.

Results from follow-up tests taken by the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) showed lower bacteria levels. Contact with the ocean water no longer poses a higher-than-normal risk. Officials recommend staying out of large pools on the beach that are frequented by birds, and runoff from those pools, because the water may contain increased bacteria from fecal matter.

Since 2003, state officials have used a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency grant to monitor popular Oregon beaches and make timely reports to the public about elevated levels of fecal bacteria. Oregon state agencies participating in this program are OHA, DEQ and the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department.

For more information, visit the Oregon Beach Monitoring Program website at http://www.healthoregon.org/beach or call 971-673-0440, or call OHA toll-free information line at 877-290-6767.

###

Sunset Bay State Park Beach Health Advisory Lifted Oct 2 - 10/02/26

October 2, 2026

Media contacts: Erica Heartquist, [email protected]

Sunset Bay State Park Beach health advisory lifted Oct 2

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) today lifted a public health advisory for contact with ocean water at Sunset Bay State Park Beach, located in Coos County.

The health authority issued the advisory September 30, after water samples showed higher-than-normal levels of fecal bacteria in ocean waters.

Results from follow-up tests taken by the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) showed lower bacteria levels. Contact with the ocean water no longer poses a higher-than-normal risk. Officials recommend staying out of large pools on the beach that are frequented by birds, and runoff from those pools, because the water may contain increased bacteria from fecal matter.

Since 2003, state officials have used a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency grant to monitor popular Oregon beaches and make timely reports to the public about elevated levels of fecal bacteria. Oregon state agencies participating in this program are OHA, DEQ and the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department.

For more information, visit the Oregon Beach Monitoring Program website at http://www.healthoregon.org/beach or call 971-673-0440, or call OHA toll-free information line at 877-290-6767.

###

New Facility Expands Access For Youth Mental Health Care In Central Oregon - 10/01/26

October 1, 2026 

Media contact: Kim Lippert, [email protected]

New facility expands access for youth mental health care in Central Oregon

REDMOND, Ore. – Oregon Health Authority (OHA) and community partners broke ground Sept. 29 on a new residential mental health treatment facility that expands access for youth in Central Oregon. The 16‑bed facility, located in Redmond, will provide critical care close to home for youth 12–17 experiencing a behavioral health crisis. 

“OHA is proud to support a project that brings critical mental health treatment closer to home for young people and families in Central Oregon,” said Ebony Clarke, OHA behavioral health director. “This facility reflects Oregon’s commitment to building a behavioral health system where youth in our state can receive compassionate care when they need it most.” 

Families, behavioral health practitioners, and legislative leaders spoke at the groundbreaking and acknowledged the facility will address long‑standing behavioral health service gaps in the region.  

The project is supported in part by $3 million in general fund dollars provided by OHA through House Bill 5024. Additional funding came from the Oregon Department of Administrative Services, Central Oregon Health Council, federal appropriations, and contributions from the facility’s developer, Headwaters Behavioral Health. 

This new facility adds 16 beds to Oregon’s existing pool of children’s psychiatric residential treatment beds. Two similar facilities funded through House Bill 5024 are Community Counseling Solutions’ STARS project in Boardman and Madrona Recovery Center in Tigard. Together, these facilities provide 36 children’s psychiatric residential treatment beds. Once the Deschutes County facility opens, the total number of beds available through these facilities will increase to more than 50 statewide. 

The need for expanded youth services in Central Oregon was made clear in St. Charles Health System’s July 2024 report, Unmet Mental Health Needs for Youth in Central Oregon, which documented persistent shortages of psychiatric beds, crisis placements, and regional treatment options. The gaps left many young people waiting in emergency departments for extended periods while appropriate care was arranged. 

“This facility represents something our community has talked about, hoped for, and worked towards for many years,” said Molly Wells-Darling, senior behavioral health director at St. Charles Health System. “When a young person is in crisis they deserve to have the right care at the right time at the right place, as close to home as possible.” 

The new 9,200‑square‑foot facility will provide evidence‑based treatment that includes therapy, medication management, life skills training, and academic support. Youth may stay from 14 days to several months depending on individual treatment needs. 

Headwaters Behavioral Health, which received project approval from the City of Redmond, will operate the facility. The organization also runs a youth residential treatment center in Idaho. The new facility anticipates opening in late 2027. 

OHA continues to prioritize investments that strengthen Oregon’s behavioral health system and expand youth access to treatment statewide. Learn more about OHA supported programs for children and young adults at https://www.oregon.gov/oha/bh/families/pages/index.aspx

Community leaders, legislators, and advocates gather for a groundbrekaing ceremony at the future site of a 16-bed youth behavioral health facility in Redmond located at 815 NW Canal Blvd. The facility will provide care for young people experiencing behavioral health challenges.

 

### 

New Facility Expands Access For Youth Mental Health Care In Central Oregon - 10/01/26

October 1, 2026 

Media contact: Kim Lippert, [email protected]

New facility expands access for youth mental health care in Central Oregon

REDMOND, Ore. – Oregon Health Authority (OHA) and community partners broke ground Sept. 29 on a new residential mental health treatment facility that expands access for youth in Central Oregon. The 16‑bed facility, located in Redmond, will provide critical care close to home for youth 12–17 experiencing a behavioral health crisis. 

“OHA is proud to support a project that brings critical mental health treatment closer to home for young people and families in Central Oregon,” said Ebony Clarke, OHA behavioral health director. “This facility reflects Oregon’s commitment to building a behavioral health system where youth in our state can receive compassionate care when they need it most.” 

Families, behavioral health practitioners, and legislative leaders spoke at the groundbreaking and acknowledged the facility will address long‑standing behavioral health service gaps in the region.  

The project is supported in part by $3 million in general fund dollars provided by OHA through House Bill 5024. Additional funding came from the Oregon Department of Administrative Services, Central Oregon Health Council, federal appropriations, and contributions from the facility’s developer, Headwaters Behavioral Health. 

This new facility adds 16 beds to Oregon’s existing pool of children’s psychiatric residential treatment beds. Two similar facilities funded through House Bill 5024 are Community Counseling Solutions’ STARS project in Boardman and Madrona Recovery Center in Tigard. Together, these facilities provide 36 children’s psychiatric residential treatment beds. Once the Deschutes County facility opens, the total number of beds available through these facilities will increase to more than 50 statewide. 

The need for expanded youth services in Central Oregon was made clear in St. Charles Health System’s July 2024 report, Unmet Mental Health Needs for Youth in Central Oregon, which documented persistent shortages of psychiatric beds, crisis placements, and regional treatment options. The gaps left many young people waiting in emergency departments for extended periods while appropriate care was arranged. 

“This facility represents something our community has talked about, hoped for, and worked towards for many years,” said Molly Wells-Darling, senior behavioral health director at St. Charles Health System. “When a young person is in crisis they deserve to have the right care at the right time at the right place, as close to home as possible.” 

The new 9,200‑square‑foot facility will provide evidence‑based treatment that includes therapy, medication management, life skills training, and academic support. Youth may stay from 14 days to several months depending on individual treatment needs. 

Headwaters Behavioral Health, which received project approval from the City of Redmond, will operate the facility. The organization also runs a youth residential treatment center in Idaho. The new facility anticipates opening in late 2027. 

OHA continues to prioritize investments that strengthen Oregon’s behavioral health system and expand youth access to treatment statewide. Learn more about OHA supported programs for children and young adults at https://www.oregon.gov/oha/bh/families/pages/index.aspx

Community leaders, legislators, and advocates gather for a groundbrekaing ceremony at the future site of a 16-bed youth behavioral health facility in Redmond located at 815 NW Canal Blvd. The facility will provide care for young people experiencing behavioral health challenges.

 

### 

2026-2027 Respiratory Virus Season Begins with Increased flu activity - 09/30/26

September 30, 2026

Media Contact: Jonathan Modie, [email protected] 

2026-2027 respiratory virus season begins with increased flu activity

Health officials say now is time for vaccinations  

PORTLAND, Ore.—While it may seem early to talk about the fall and winter season, health officials say now is the best time for people in Oregon to get vaccinated against respiratory viruses so they are protected before gathering indoors for holidays and other celebrations. 

“I’d like to remind everyone to think about loved ones, friends and neighbors as they plan ahead for the holiday season,” said Dean Sidelinger, M.D., M.S.Ed., of Oregon Health Authority’s Public Health Division. “We are still weeks away from the season’s first holiday, Halloween—which is on a Saturday, I might add—and that’s plenty of time to get vaccinated and start building immunity against these viruses, long before the many parties and events that keep us busy in the fall.” 

Sidelinger, OHA’s health officer and state epidemiologist, was among three physicians who spoke today during a media briefing to kick off the 2026-2027 respiratory virus season. Public health officials consider the first week of October to be the unofficial start of respiratory virus season, since influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) activity typically increase during this period.  

A recording of the media briefing is available on OHA’s YouTube channel. 

Sidelinger underscored the importance of getting vaccinated now by noting that Oregon has seen an increase in positive flu tests in recent weeks, with percent positivity at 3.2%. He said flu transmission remains low, but “that could change quickly and we are recommending that people in Oregon seek their flu shots soon.” 

A summer 2026 surge in COVID-19 activity—a pattern seen annually since 2021—has leveled off, although it’s not clear if the increase has yet peaked. “With elevated COVID-19 spread, it is a great time to update COVID-19 protection,” Sidelinger said. 

The physicians also discussed the ongoing measles outbreak during the briefing. Sidelinger emphasized that measles is widespread in Oregon. With 58 cases in the state as of Monday, the state now has the highest number of measles cases in the state since 1991, when we had 93 cases, and since measles was declared eliminated in 2000.  

That is a sobering statistic, Sidelinger said, particularly when understanding that 96% of those measles cases were in unvaccinated persons or individuals whose vaccine status was unknown.  

The risk of severe disease from measles for people who are vaccinated is very low. Measles spreads rapidly in unvaccinated communities and anyone who is unvaccinated is at risk. For children, two doses of MMR vaccine given after a child’s first birthday are recommended. Adults who do not have records of getting two MMR—or measles—vaccines, can talk to their health care provider about their level of immunity, including whether they would benefit from an MMR vaccine at this time when measles is circulating in Oregon. 

Dawn Nolt, M.D., MPH, professor of pediatric infectious diseases at OHSU’s Doernbecher Children’s Hospital, said that while every respiratory virus season brings illness, “we have an opportunity to make the 2026-2027 season less severe for our children, families and communities” by getting vaccinated sooner than later. 

“We want our kids to be where they belong: in school, with their friends, with their families, and making memories—not in bed sick or in a hospital,” Nolt said. 

Leona O’Keefe, M.D., medical director of clinical services at Jackson Care Connect in Jackson County, recalled once caring for a young father who spent weeks in the intensive care unit and hospital with flu. He was not vaccinated because, like many busy parents, he felt he didn’t have time available in his schedule. “I’ve supported family members through fear and sadness around these preventable diseases,” O’Keefe said. 

She added, “I would be devastated if one of my children was harmed by a preventable disease because I chose not to vaccinate them, whereas I would be far more able to face myself if I gave my children incredibly safe vaccines that hold such low risks.” 

O’Keefe also noted that prevention can be especially important in rural communities, where families may live far from hospitals or specialists and serious illness can require long travel times and cause additional stress for patients and caregivers. 

As the 2026–2027 respiratory virus season begins, Nolt highlighted three recommendations for families: 

1. Get vaccinated and keep your family’s vaccines up to date. Vaccines against COVID-19, flu, RSV, and measles can dramatically reduce the risk of serious illness and hospitalization.

2. Take simple steps to reduce the spread of infection. Respiratory viruses spread easily, especially indoors, and measles is extraordinarily contagious. Stay home when you’re sick, wash your hands, cover your coughs and sneezes, and consider masking when respiratory viruses are circulating widely or someone in your household is particularly vulnerable.

3. Know who is most vulnerable and act early. Everyone can get infected, but infants, older adults, and people with certain underlying health conditions are at greater risk of serious complications if they get sick. Know your family’s risks and talk with your health care provider about prevention and what to do if someone becomes sick. 

 
 

O’Keefe had one more recommendation: Talk to a trusted medical provider. 

“I know it can be challenging to get a doctor appointment and fit all your questions in, but whenever possible, talk to a trusted medical provider. If you don’t have a primary care physician, consider calling the assigned primary care physician or nurse advice line on the back of your insurance card. You can also call your local public health department—regardless of insurance—or go to your local pharmacy,” O’Keefe said.  

People can get the COVID-19, influenza and RSV vaccines by contacting their health plan, health care provider, county public health clinic or federally qualified health center. They can also call 211 or visit 211info.org. 

###

2026-2027 Respiratory Virus Season Begins with Increased flu activity - 09/30/26

September 30, 2026

Media Contact: Jonathan Modie, [email protected] 

2026-2027 respiratory virus season begins with increased flu activity

Health officials say now is time for vaccinations  

PORTLAND, Ore.—While it may seem early to talk about the fall and winter season, health officials say now is the best time for people in Oregon to get vaccinated against respiratory viruses so they are protected before gathering indoors for holidays and other celebrations. 

“I’d like to remind everyone to think about loved ones, friends and neighbors as they plan ahead for the holiday season,” said Dean Sidelinger, M.D., M.S.Ed., of Oregon Health Authority’s Public Health Division. “We are still weeks away from the season’s first holiday, Halloween—which is on a Saturday, I might add—and that’s plenty of time to get vaccinated and start building immunity against these viruses, long before the many parties and events that keep us busy in the fall.” 

Sidelinger, OHA’s health officer and state epidemiologist, was among three physicians who spoke today during a media briefing to kick off the 2026-2027 respiratory virus season. Public health officials consider the first week of October to be the unofficial start of respiratory virus season, since influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) activity typically increase during this period.  

A recording of the media briefing is available on OHA’s YouTube channel. 

Sidelinger underscored the importance of getting vaccinated now by noting that Oregon has seen an increase in positive flu tests in recent weeks, with percent positivity at 3.2%. He said flu transmission remains low, but “that could change quickly and we are recommending that people in Oregon seek their flu shots soon.” 

A summer 2026 surge in COVID-19 activity—a pattern seen annually since 2021—has leveled off, although it’s not clear if the increase has yet peaked. “With elevated COVID-19 spread, it is a great time to update COVID-19 protection,” Sidelinger said. 

The physicians also discussed the ongoing measles outbreak during the briefing. Sidelinger emphasized that measles is widespread in Oregon. With 58 cases in the state as of Monday, the state now has the highest number of measles cases in the state since 1991, when we had 93 cases, and since measles was declared eliminated in 2000.  

That is a sobering statistic, Sidelinger said, particularly when understanding that 96% of those measles cases were in unvaccinated persons or individuals whose vaccine status was unknown.  

The risk of severe disease from measles for people who are vaccinated is very low. Measles spreads rapidly in unvaccinated communities and anyone who is unvaccinated is at risk. For children, two doses of MMR vaccine given after a child’s first birthday are recommended. Adults who do not have records of getting two MMR—or measles—vaccines, can talk to their health care provider about their level of immunity, including whether they would benefit from an MMR vaccine at this time when measles is circulating in Oregon. 

Dawn Nolt, M.D., MPH, professor of pediatric infectious diseases at OHSU’s Doernbecher Children’s Hospital, said that while every respiratory virus season brings illness, “we have an opportunity to make the 2026-2027 season less severe for our children, families and communities” by getting vaccinated sooner than later. 

“We want our kids to be where they belong: in school, with their friends, with their families, and making memories—not in bed sick or in a hospital,” Nolt said. 

Leona O’Keefe, M.D., medical director of clinical services at Jackson Care Connect in Jackson County, recalled once caring for a young father who spent weeks in the intensive care unit and hospital with flu. He was not vaccinated because, like many busy parents, he felt he didn’t have time available in his schedule. “I’ve supported family members through fear and sadness around these preventable diseases,” O’Keefe said. 

She added, “I would be devastated if one of my children was harmed by a preventable disease because I chose not to vaccinate them, whereas I would be far more able to face myself if I gave my children incredibly safe vaccines that hold such low risks.” 

O’Keefe also noted that prevention can be especially important in rural communities, where families may live far from hospitals or specialists and serious illness can require long travel times and cause additional stress for patients and caregivers. 

As the 2026–2027 respiratory virus season begins, Nolt highlighted three recommendations for families: 

1. Get vaccinated and keep your family’s vaccines up to date. Vaccines against COVID-19, flu, RSV, and measles can dramatically reduce the risk of serious illness and hospitalization.

2. Take simple steps to reduce the spread of infection. Respiratory viruses spread easily, especially indoors, and measles is extraordinarily contagious. Stay home when you’re sick, wash your hands, cover your coughs and sneezes, and consider masking when respiratory viruses are circulating widely or someone in your household is particularly vulnerable.

3. Know who is most vulnerable and act early. Everyone can get infected, but infants, older adults, and people with certain underlying health conditions are at greater risk of serious complications if they get sick. Know your family’s risks and talk with your health care provider about prevention and what to do if someone becomes sick. 

 
 

O’Keefe had one more recommendation: Talk to a trusted medical provider. 

“I know it can be challenging to get a doctor appointment and fit all your questions in, but whenever possible, talk to a trusted medical provider. If you don’t have a primary care physician, consider calling the assigned primary care physician or nurse advice line on the back of your insurance card. You can also call your local public health department—regardless of insurance—or go to your local pharmacy,” O’Keefe said.  

People can get the COVID-19, influenza and RSV vaccines by contacting their health plan, health care provider, county public health clinic or federally qualified health center. They can also call 211 or visit 211info.org. 

###

Recreational Use Advisory Downgraded To A Precaution For Prineville Reservoir - 09/30/26

September 30, 2026

Media contact: Erica Heartquist, [email protected]

Recreational use advisory downgraded to a precaution for Prineville Reservoir

Pet owners should continue to keep their pets away from areas that appear to have a bloom

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) has downgraded the recreational use health advisory to a precaution for Prineville Reservoir in Crook County.

OHA issued the advisory July 27.

Water monitoring has confirmed that the level of cyanotoxins in Prineville Reservoir are below recreational guideline values for people. However, levels detected are still above OHA’s educational guideline values for dogs, and owners should keep their pets away from areas with blooms.

OHA advises recreational visitors to continually be alert to signs of cyanobacteria blooms. This is because blooms can develop and disappear on any water body at any time when bloom conditions are favorable. Only a fraction of water bodies in Oregon are monitored for blooms and toxins, so it’s important for people to become familiar with the signs of a bloom, and exposure routes and symptoms by visiting OHA’s Cyanobacteria (Harmful Algae) Blooms website at http://www.healthoregon.org/hab.

When recreating, people, and especially small children, and pets should avoid areas where the water is foamy, scummy, thick like paint, pea-green or blue-green, or if thick brownish-red mats are visible or bright green clumps are suspended in the water. If you see these signs, avoid activities such as swimming or motorized or non-motorized boating activities that cause you to swallow water or inhale droplets, and keep pets out of the area.

Cyanotoxins can still exist in clear water. When a bloom dies, toxins released may reach into clear water around the bloom. Blooms can be pushed into other areas, leaving toxins behind. There also are species of cyanobacteria that anchor themselves at the bottom of a water body, live in the sediment, or can grow on aquatic plants and release toxins into clear water.

For health information or to report an illness, contact OHA at 971-673-0482, or visit OHA’s Cyanobacteria (Harmful Algae) Blooms website.

###

Recreational Use Advisory Downgraded To A Precaution For Prineville Reservoir - 09/30/26

September 30, 2026

Media contact: Erica Heartquist, [email protected]

Recreational use advisory downgraded to a precaution for Prineville Reservoir

Pet owners should continue to keep their pets away from areas that appear to have a bloom

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) has downgraded the recreational use health advisory to a precaution for Prineville Reservoir in Crook County.

OHA issued the advisory July 27.

Water monitoring has confirmed that the level of cyanotoxins in Prineville Reservoir are below recreational guideline values for people. However, levels detected are still above OHA’s educational guideline values for dogs, and owners should keep their pets away from areas with blooms.

OHA advises recreational visitors to continually be alert to signs of cyanobacteria blooms. This is because blooms can develop and disappear on any water body at any time when bloom conditions are favorable. Only a fraction of water bodies in Oregon are monitored for blooms and toxins, so it’s important for people to become familiar with the signs of a bloom, and exposure routes and symptoms by visiting OHA’s Cyanobacteria (Harmful Algae) Blooms website at http://www.healthoregon.org/hab.

When recreating, people, and especially small children, and pets should avoid areas where the water is foamy, scummy, thick like paint, pea-green or blue-green, or if thick brownish-red mats are visible or bright green clumps are suspended in the water. If you see these signs, avoid activities such as swimming or motorized or non-motorized boating activities that cause you to swallow water or inhale droplets, and keep pets out of the area.

Cyanotoxins can still exist in clear water. When a bloom dies, toxins released may reach into clear water around the bloom. Blooms can be pushed into other areas, leaving toxins behind. There also are species of cyanobacteria that anchor themselves at the bottom of a water body, live in the sediment, or can grow on aquatic plants and release toxins into clear water.

For health information or to report an illness, contact OHA at 971-673-0482, or visit OHA’s Cyanobacteria (Harmful Algae) Blooms website.

###