News

Federal government shutdown and SNAP benefits
Read more: Federal government shutdown and SNAP benefitsInformation from the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) The federal government shutdown is affecting funding for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). If the shutdown continues into November, SNAP benefits will not be issued in Oregon until federal funding resumes. ODHS understands this creates uncertainty and stress for many Oregonians who rely on food…

Potential impact of proposed federal cuts to Oregon Health Plan
Read more: Potential impact of proposed federal cuts to Oregon Health PlanThe federal government has entered a shutdown. At this time, Oregon Health Plan (OHP) members are not affected. OHP services continue as normal, and no immediate changes to coverage or provider access are expected in the near term. OHP services continue as normal, and no immediate changes to coverage or provider access are expected in the near term. If you are an OPH member, your benefits remain active.

IHN-CCO member guidance
Read more: IHN-CCO member guidanceIn July 2025, a new federal law was passed. This law changes Medicaid (OHP) and SNAP (food help). These changes could affect your benefits. We understand that these changes can be confusing, and you may have questions. IHN is committed to helping everyone get the care they need – no matter their income, race, background, gender, immigration status, or who they love. You matter. You belong. You are not alone.

Oregon Health Authority report on healthcare costs and spending
Read more: Oregon Health Authority report on healthcare costs and spending14.5% of Oregonians delayed or avoided health care in 2024 due to growing cost A pair of new Oregon Health Authority (OHA) reports find health care costs continue to grow faster than the state and national economies. Meanwhile, a new committee is launching to identify effective ways to make health care more affordable for Oregonians.…

Oregon Summer EBT: Nutrition Program for Kids
Read more: Oregon Summer EBT: Nutrition Program for KidsOregon launches the return of its Summer EBT for children program, which gives families money to buy healthy food during the summer months when free and reduced-price school meals are not available. Last summer was the first year Oregon offered this benefit, and about 362,000 school-aged children participated, with families receiving a total of $43…

Oregon Health Forward
Read more: Oregon Health ForwardOregon Health Authority’s plan to eliminate health inequities Oregon Health Forward is the vision and alliance of three efforts that will enable us to eliminate health inequities, mobilize our partners, and strengthen our capacity to deliver on our commitments consistently and transparently. Eliminating health inequities means ensuring that all people in Oregon can reach their full health…

Oregon Health Authority: Monitoring Federal Changes and Impacts on Oregon
Read more: Oregon Health Authority: Monitoring Federal Changes and Impacts on OregonEvery change in federal administration carries potential impact on Oregon and, like other health agencies across the country, OHA is monitoring these changes closely. At this time, no changes have been made to the Oregon Health Plan and Healthier Oregon. OHA leadership and subject matter experts continue to evaluate administration actions and any impact they may have in…

Benton County Updates all Facilites and Grounds Smoke- Vape- and Tobacco-Free Policy
Read more: Benton County Updates all Facilites and Grounds Smoke- Vape- and Tobacco-Free PolicyBenton County recently updated their Tobacco-Free Facilities and Grounds Policy to capture and include any product that can be smoked or vaped, including cannabis. The goal of the updated policy is to continue promoting the health and safety of employees and the public by reducing the harmful effects of secondhand smoke and nicotine addiction Read…

Benton County celebrates Public Health Week with presentation of Community Health Improvement Plan
Read more: Benton County celebrates Public Health Week with presentation of Community Health Improvement PlanOn April 1, 2025, the Board of Commissioners proclaimed Public Health Week in Benton County. The proclamation was read by Public Health Division Director, Sara Hartstein. Benton County celebrated with a presentation on the 2024-2028 Regional Community Health Improvement Plan (CHIP). On April 15, 2025, the Board of Commissioners heard about the latest regional CHIP, presented by Amy…