Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU Health) Program

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.