News & Stories for Oregonians
October is National Dental Hygiene Month, and it couldn’t come at a better time. With Halloween candy filling bowls and lunch boxes, it’s a good time to remember that small daily habits do the most to protect our smiles. The good news is that you don’t have to skip the treats. When it comes to […]
Oregon Health Authority (OHA) has released its final report on the health risks linked to drinking water from domestic wells north of Prineville. This report was created by OHA’s Environmental Health Assessment Program after a two‑month public comment period. Close to 60 wells were tested in the area. Results show that many have contaminants that […]
Climate hazards are happening more often in Oregon. There are more days of extreme heat and wildfire smoke than 20 years ago, sometimes at the same time. These findings come from Oregon Health Authority (OHA)’s Climate and Health in Oregon 2025 report. Communities are taking action to protect people’s health. Marion County is helping older […]
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. It’s a time to learn and share about the importance of early detection and factors like alcohol use, that can increase the risk of breast cancer. Awareness matters Breast cancer is the most diagnosed cancer in the United States and in Oregon. Each year, about 3,500 women and 30 […]
People in Oregon can now get an early look at their health coverage options for 2027 with the launch of the Explore Health Plan Guide, a new online tool designed to help people prepare for Open Enrollment. The new tool The Plan Guide helps users explore individual health and dental plans available in their area […]
Classes are back in session at colleges and universities across Oregon. Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) is reminding students about the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which can help eligible students afford groceries while they pursue their education. Student eligibility SNAP has special rules for students ages 18 through 49 who attend an institution […]
Every October, Breast Cancer Awareness Month reminds us why finding cancer early and supporting each other matters. In Oregon, the ScreenWise program puts these ideas into action every day. ScreenWise helps people get free breast and cervical cancer screenings and ensures they receive any follow-up services needed including referral to treatment for those diagnosed with […]
Oregon Health Authority (OHA) has launched a new 30‑minute online training to help 988 crisis line staff better recognize and respond to concerns about problem gambling. The 988 Lifeline is Oregon’s crisis response system. It connects people to immediate support during mental health or substance use crises. This new training helps crisis responders learn more […]
Oregon Health Authority (OHA) and community partners broke ground on Sept. 29 for a new residential mental health treatment facility for youth in Central Oregon. The 16-bed center in Redmond will help young people ages 12–17 who are experiencing a mental health crisis. Ebony Clarke, OHA’s behavioral health director, said the new center shows Oregon’s […]
Health leaders in Oregon say that even though fall and winter seem far away, now is the best time to get vaccines for common respiratory viruses. This helps people build protection before indoor holiday gatherings. “I’d like to remind everyone to think about loved ones, friends and neighbors as they plan ahead for the holiday […]