Priorities
In early 2019, the PartnerSHIP identified five priorities because they are significant health issues that impact a lot of people, are upstream determinants of downstream health outcomes, and because they affect some communities more than others.
Institutional bias
Institutional bias is defined as the tendency for resources, policies and practices of institutions to operate in ways which advantage white, heterosexual, cis-gendered, able-bodied individuals and communities. This discrimination results in adverse health consequences for minority groups, such as people of color, people with low income, people with disabilities and people who identify as LGBTQ+.
Adversity, trauma and toxic stress
Adversity, trauma and toxic stress include abuse and neglect, living in poverty, incarceration, family separation, and exposure to racism and discrimination. These events have a lifelong effect on health and are correlated with things like substance use, suicide and even some cancers.
Economic drivers of health
Economic drivers of health include housing, living wage, food insecurity and transportation. Poverty is a strong predictor of poor health. Although Oregon's economy is growing, many are struggling to get out of poverty despite having a job due to the high cost of living or raising a family. People living in poverty experience higher rates of premature death and increased rates of homelessness, mental distress and food insecurity.
Access to equitable preventive health care
Despite an increasing number of people with health insurance, many are challenged to get to a health care provider or see a dentist due to provider shortages, transportation barriers, health care costs, or because they don't feel comfortable with their provider due to language or other cultural difference.
Behavioral health
Behavioral health includes mental health and substance use. Oregon has one of the highest rates of mental illness in the country. Tobacco and substance use are the first and third leading causes of death, respectively, in Oregon. Mental distress can lead to lower quality of life, unemployment and increased rates of suicide. Use of alcohol, opioids, methamphetamine and other substances have a significant impact on many families.
Learn about our process for developing our 2020-2024 plan.
Oregon PartnerSHIP
The Public Health Division convenes the PartnerSHIP to develop and oversee implementation of Healthier Together Oregon. The PartnerSHIP is made up of representatives of priority populations and implementers of the plan. The PartnerSHIP is currently being reformed to support implementation. If your agency is interested in being involved, please contact publichealth.policy@state.or.us.
Meeting Archives 2019-2020 Roster and Bios
Resources and Contacts
Success Stories
Do your local health priorities align with the SHIP?
Share your stories of success and inspire other communities to address the leading causes of death and disability in Oregon.