Oregon Reveals Need for 3,000 New Mental Health Beds, Contemplates $500 Million Expenditure
Oregon faces a severe mental health services shortage, needing 3,000 more adult residential beds—an estimated $500 million expense over five years. A report highlights this crisis and the state's plan to address it.
From Washing Hands to Grasping Hope, US Woman's Life Transformed by Pioneering Brain Implant
Amber Pearson's severe OCD and epilepsy improved considerably after receiving a groundbreaking brain implant that has allowed her to be present in her daily life without being preoccupied with compulsions.
Former New Jersey Health Deputy and Biden-Harris Advisor Dr. Sejal Hathi Takes Lead in Oregon Public Health
Dr. Sejal Hathi joins Oregon as a key public health official, bringing experience from New Jersey and the Biden-Harris Administration, with hopes to advance state health initiatives.
Multnomah County Hosts Free Vaccine Clinic for Kids: Avoid School Exclusion with No-Cost Immunizations
Multnomah County offers free vaccine clinics for kids 5-19, with appointments and walk-ins at David Douglas High School, and an additional no-appointment clinic at Boys & Girls Club Rockwood.
Clackamas County Allocates $16 Million to Boost Mental Health and Addiction Recovery Services
Clackamas County invests $16 million from Oregon Health Authority into mental health and addiction services, planning new outpatient and crisis centers, and support for those homeless post-recovery.
Clark County Offers Free Workshops on Composting and Sustainable Living Through Spring Series
Clark County offers free workshops on composting and sustainable living, including sessions on cooking with leftovers, backyard composting, and green cleaning. Registration is required for hands-on events.
Washington County Sheriff's Office Enrolls Women in "Power Curve" Self-Defense Classes to Boost Safety and Confidence
The Washington County Sheriff's Office offers a self-defense class for women over 14 to enhance their safety, teaching physical defense techniques and situational awareness.
Washington County Honors Local Heroes at 21st Annual Public Health Recognition Awards
Washington County celebrated its 21st annual Public Health Recognition Awards, honoring local health heroes like Lucia Benavides and groups including the Beaverton Resource Center and Pacific University's Reproductive Justice Action Team.
OSAA Upholds Inclusive Policy Amid Republican Critique Over Transgender Student-Athlete's Performance
The OSAA confirmed its policy allowing transgender girls in high school sports, despite opposition from GOP lawmakers after a trans athlete's track success. This policy is supported by Oregon's laws against discrimination based on gender identity.
Oregon Court of Appeals Upholds Washington County's Ban on Flavored Tobacco, Aligning with National Efforts to Curb Youth Addiction
The Oregon Court of Appeals upheld Washington County's ban on flavored tobacco, impacting local sales and aiming to reduce youth addiction and targeted marketing.
Washington County Officials Seek Public's Aid in Identifying Man Found Dead in Beaverton
Washington County officials seek public help to identify a man found dead near Beaverton's Elmonica MAX Station on April 20, described as a white male, aged 45-64 with distinctive scars and dental work, wearing green scrubs and a black puffer vest.
Multnomah County Death Wave, Fentanyl Fatalities Forecast to Hit 36 per Month, Communities Reel from Devastating Impact
Multnomah County reports a significant rise in fentanyl-related deaths, with the rates soaring since 2018. The Health Department's report reveals concerns over co-occurring substance use and demographic disparities in the impact of the epidemic.
Multnomah County Behavioral Health Division Strives to Fill Systemic Gaps Amid Workforce Challenges
The article reports on a briefing given to the Multnomah County Board of Commissioners about the state of their Behavioral Health Division, highlighting the division's activities, challenges, and the need for better system integration.
3,000+ Oregon Nurses Set for Three-Day Strike at Providence Hospitals Demanding Better Conditions and Pay
Over 3,000 Oregon nurses plan a three-day strike at Providence hospitals for better conditions, adherence to the Safe Staffing Law, and fair pay. The Oregon Nurses Association delivered the strike notice amid stalled negotiations.
DoveLewis to Double Its Northwest Portland Facility, Addressing Veterinary Space Constraints and Expanding Services
DoveLewis is set to expand its Slabtown animal hospital with a new 30,000-square-foot facility, featuring 12 exam rooms and more, aiming to enhance its emergency and specialty veterinary services.
Marion County Hit By Measles Outbreak, Officials Urge Vaccination After Fourth Case Emerges
Four measles cases have been reported in Marion County last month, with the most recent involving an unvaccinated child. Health officials stress the importance of vaccination amid increased cases in Oregon.
Oregon Boosts Fight Against Opioid Crisis with Over $13 Million for Addiction Treatment Programs
Oregon allocates over $13 million from opioid lawsuit settlements to bolster addiction treatment programs across the state, with particular support for underserved areas and collaboration between jails and service providers.
Oregon Teen in Foster Care Dies by Suicide, State Agencies Launch Multifaceted Investigation and Review
ODHS and OHA reported the suicide of a 17-year-old in Oregon's foster care. Reviews and investigations are underway to prevent such tragedies and ensure children's access to mental health services.
Washington County Seeks Art from Individuals in Recovery for Beaverton and Hillsboro Addictions Centers
Washington County's Behavioral Health and Studio Art Direct are seeking local artists in recovery to submit artwork for display at the upcoming Center for Addictions Triage and Treatment. Selected artists will be compensated.
Multnomah County Health Department Warns Against Unlicensed Food Carts in Portland
The Multnomah County Health Department cautions against unlicensed food carts in Portland, citing health and safety risks due to insufficient inspections and permits, especially ahead of a busy event weekend.
Lacamas Lake Health Advisory Reissued Due to High Toxins; Round Lake Cleared, Vancouver Lake Remains on Alert
Clark County Public Health has issued a warning for Lacamas Lake due to high cyanotoxin levels, advising against water contact and recommending fish be cleaned thoroughly, while Round Lake has been cleared.
Clark County Officials Warn of Public Health Risk from Unpermitted Food Carts Near Event Venues
Clark County warns of unpermitted food carts posing health risks, particularly at RV Inn Style Resorts Amphitheater. Officials struggle to control the issue and urge buying only from permitted vendors.
Multnomah County Offers Crucial Free Medicare Counseling as Open Enrollment Approaches
Multnomah County announces free assistance for residents during Medicare Open Enrollment, highlighting the importance of reviewing coverage changes and utilizing county resources, such as SHIBA, for informed healthcare decisions.
Multnomah County Officials Issue Voluntary Wood Burning Restriction to Combat Declining Air Quality
Multnomah County's voluntary wood burning restriction is in effect to improve air quality. Exemptions apply to those dependent on wood heat. The measure aims to reduce health risks from smoke particles.
Hillsboro to Host Veterans Stand Down Event, Offering Comprehensive Support and Resources for Local Veterans
The Veterans Stand Down event offers resources and support for veterans in Washington County on November 15 at Sonrise Church, including healthcare, housing, and employment services.
After 3 Months, Multnomah County Reports 133 Individuals Redirected to Recovery through New Deflection Program
Multnomah County's new deflection program has engaged 133 people in recovery services over three months, with the local police and a dedicated care center aiding in diverting individuals away from the criminal system.
Portland Water Bureau Reports Cryptosporidium in Bull Run Watershed Amid Ongoing Treatment Plan Delays
A Cryptosporidium oocyst was found in Portland's water supply; further treatment to start by 2027. Current levels don't warrant general public action, but risk exists for the immunocompromised.
Low Levels of Cryptosporidium Detected in Portland's Water Supply, Monitoring Intensifies Ahead of 2027 Filtration Deadline
Cryptosporidium has been found in Portland's drinking water, with potential risks for the immunocompromised. The Water Bureau is increasing monitoring but has until 2027 to start filtration.
Oregon Governor Tina Kotek Declares March 10 as Abortion Provider Appreciation Day Amidst National Reproductive Rights Battles
Oregon Governor Tina Kotek proclaimed March 10 as Abortion Provider Appreciation Day, reaffirming the state's support for reproductive rights and access to abortion services.
ODHS Commits to Strengthening Oversight of Oregon’s Adult Care Facilities with Expanded Safety Action Plan
The Oregon Department of Human Services expands its action plan for overseeing adult care facilities, improving safety, and oversight mechanisms based on a consultant's findings and recommendations.
Oregon Governor Tina Kotek Champions $47.7M Bill to Strengthen Mental Health Workforce
Governor Kotek testified for new mental health workforce investments in Oregon, supporting Senate Bill 142 with a $47.7 million proposal to train 4,000 new workers and offer incentives for current staff.
17th Annual Blue Mountain Occupational Safety and Health Conference to Enlighten Pendleton on Workplace Safety
The 17th annual Blue Mountain Occupational Safety and Health Conference in Pendleton, Oregon, will offer education on workplace safety, including sessions in Spanish and various industry topics.
Tuberculosis Case Confirmed at Lane Middle School in Southeast Portland, Health Officials Provide Guidance and Testing
A single active pulmonary tuberculosis case was confirmed at Lane Middle School in Multnomah County; health officials are contacting those potentially exposed and offering free testing.
Multnomah County Seeks Volunteers for Public Health Advisory Board, No Formal Experience Required
Multnomah County Public Health Advisory Board seeks new members, particularly those knowledgeable in education, environment, food systems, or transportation. No formal public health training required to apply.
Gov. Tina Kotek Inaugurates New 16-Bed Mental Health Facility in Oregon's Push to Expand Care
Governor Tina Kotek inaugurated a 16-bed mental health treatment facility in Oregon, enhancing care for those with serious mental health issues and bridging the gap between hospitalization and community services.
Oregon State Treasurer Elizabeth Steiner Marks 60th Anniversary of Medicare and Medicaid, Cautions Against Federal Cuts
Oregon State Treasurer Elizabeth Steiner, a physician, marked Medicare and Medicaid's 60th anniversary, emphasizing their vital roles and expressing concerns about federal cuts impacting Americans' health and the wider economy.
Renton Regional Fire Authority Warns Bay Area Residents of Carbon Monoxide Risks
The Renton Regional Fire Authority is urging residents to be aware of carbon monoxide dangers, recognize symptoms of poisoning, and take preventive measures like maintaining appliances and using CO detectors.
Oregon Health Authority Confirms Third Measles Case in Clackamas County Amid Increased Vigilance
The OHA reports a third measles case in Clackamas County, Oregon, with no link to travel or other cases. Health officials urge vaccinations due to measles' contagious nature and potential severity.
Portland Water Bureau Detects Cryptosporidium in Bull Run Watershed
Cryptosporidium was found in Portland's water supply from Bull Run Watershed. While not an immediate health risk, immunocompromised individuals are advised to consult healthcare professionals. A new filtration system is expected by 2027.
PeaceHealth Boots Longtime Eugene ER Docs, Brings In Atlanta Operator
PeaceHealth will replace Eugene Emergency Physicians with ApolloMD at three Lane County hospitals this spring and summer, prompting organized pushback from local clinicians. The move comes as RiverBend struggles with crowding and long waits.
Portland Clinics Turn Cold Shoulder To New Medicare Patients
A new secret‑shopper study found only 35% of Portland primary‑care clinics would accept new Medicare patients, and median waits where appointments were offered hit about 61 days. The authors point to market consolidation and high Medicare Advantage enrollment as likely bottlenecks.
Measles Scare Rattles Centennial Middle School In Southeast Portland
Oregon Health Authority says Centennial Middle School in Southeast Portland was an exposure site after a confirmed measles case visited campus across several days in early April. Local clinics can help with testing and post‑exposure options.
West Coast Health Chiefs Urge Seniors To Roll Up Sleeves For Second COVID Shot
West Coast health officials recommend a second 2025–26 COVID‑19 vaccine dose for adults 65+ roughly six months after the first. Officials say the updated shots target JN.1 and are covered by Medicare Part B.

































































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