The Oregon Health Authority's (OHA) work is guided by the Oregon Health Policy Board (OHPB), which serves as the policy-making overseer for the agency and its various divisions. The Oregon Health Plan, Oregon State Hospital, public health initiatives, and behavioral health programs are some of the extensive responsibilities managed by the OHA. Additionally, the OHPB emphasizes the importance of health equity and enhances access to quality, affordable healthcare for all Oregonians.1
The OHPB hosts Town Hall meetings to gather insight from Oregon Health Plan (OHP) members, healthcare providers, and advocates to share their experiences and challenges with Coordinated Care Organizations (CCOs). These meetings are vital for collecting feedback and exploring possible improvements to Oregon's healthcare landscape. For instance, there was a Town Hall scheduled for December 3, 2024, where community members could engage in meaningful discussions.2
OHPB operates with explicit goals aimed at reducing inequities within healthcare access and enhancing the overall quality of care. The board has defined priorities for 2024-2025, which include advancing health equity, developing strategies to decrease healthcare costs, and improving member experiences with CCOs. Part of this strategic planning includes public engagement initiatives that concentrate on evaluating the effectiveness of current programs and pivoting towards more inclusive practices.3
This commitment reflects in OHPB’s efforts to hold discussions around pressing issues, such as the workforce challenges facing Oregon's healthcare system. By hosting educational webinars, the Board aims to provide ongoing training and resources to navigators within the healthcare landscape.4
Through its nine-member citizen board, OHPB seeks to foster a diverse membership that reflects the community's demographics while encouraging public involvement in its initiatives. Individuals not currently in the healthcare field are invited to apply to join the board, particularly those dedicated to enhancing health equity and lowering healthcare costs.5
OHPB continues to relate its operations to legislative actions, with commitments made under House Bill 3261 enacted in 2017, specifically focusing on the workforce needs within healthcare.6
The program places great importance on community feedback and takes actionable steps based on the insights provided by public and stakeholder involvement. The Board's priority metrics aim to ensure that there is alignment with health equity objectives and effective change management processes.7
OHPB prioritizes understanding comprehensive metrics in evaluating its healthcare systems, allowing it to adjust accordingly based on performance indicators and community health outcomes. It fosters an environment for continual improvement of Oregon's healthcare services and resource allocations by engaging in quarterly summary reports.8
As such, the OHPB's role as a governance body is not only pivotal in setting strategic directions but also in ensuring that all programs under the OHA are equipped to implement real, effective solutions that promote health equity across Oregon.
Website
Director
Amy Valent, DOProgram Director, Associate Professor, Maternal-Fetal Medicine Appointed Since January 2022Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
50hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
12hrsFirst Year Salary:
$73,242First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
20XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Portland, OR
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Portland, OR
- Crime Rate and Safety: Portland has a mix of safe neighborhoods and areas with higher crime rates. Like any city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take necessary precautions.
- Fun Activities: Portland is known for its vibrant food scene, craft breweries, outdoor activities like hiking and biking, and cultural events such as music and art festivals.
- Climate: Portland has a mild climate with plenty of rain and moderate temperatures. Summers are generally dry and warm, while winters are wet and cool.
- Races and Population: Portland is known for its diverse population with a mix of different races and ethnicities, contributing to its rich cultural scene.
- Education: Portland offers quality education with schools and universities known for their academic excellence.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Portland can be moderate to high, with housing costs being a significant factor.
- Proximity to Bigger Cities: Seattle, WA is approximately 3 hours away by car from Portland, offering a larger urban center with more amenities and job opportunities.
- Pros: Vibrant cultural scene, outdoor activities, diverse population.
- Cons: Higher cost of living, mixed safety ratings in different neighborhoods.
Interview Questions
