OUR HEALTH SYSTEM SHOULD WORK FOR EVERYONE.
Every day in Oregon, people in crisis can't get the mental health care or addiction treatment they desperately need. Why? Because we're losing the workers who provide this essential care – they simply can't afford to stay in jobs that put their own safety and financial security at risk.
Our behavioral health system is failing both workers and patients, especially those who rely on OHP for care.
Facilities are dangerously understaffed, forcing workers to handle high-risk situations alone. Rural communities have few or no providers. People of color struggle to find care that meets their needs and understands their experiences. The painful reality? We're losing experienced professionals every day because they can't make ends meet or stay safe at work.
Behavioral health workers in Oregon deserve safe conditions, fair pay, and supportive training, so they can deliver the care our loved ones and neighbors need.
WE'RE WORKING TO REBUILD OUR BEHAVIORAL HEALTH SYSTEM BY:
Ensuring Fair Compensation: Restructure Medicaid reimbursements to provide competitive wages that allow workers to stay in jobs they love
Creating Safe Workplaces: Establish comprehensive safety standards that protect both workers and patients
Building a Diverse Workforce: Create career pathways and mentorship programs to develop providers who reflect our communities
We can't wait. Every day we delay, more workers leave the field and more Oregonians go without critical care. By supporting our behavioral health workforce now, we take a crucial step toward a system that works for everyone.
The choice is clear: support our behavioral health workforce now, or watch more Oregonians suffer. We must take action to strengthen our behavioral health system and ensure healing is possible for all Oregonians.