Clatsop County is taking significant steps to enhance health equity through a new health equity plan, as discussed during the Human Services Advisory Council meeting on May 1, 2025. The plan, spearheaded by Jill Quackenbush from the Clatsop County Department of Public Health, aims to address critical health disparities in the region.

The health equity plan is part of Oregon's public health modernization initiative, which has been in development since 2013. This framework requires local health departments to assess and implement strategies that ensure equitable health outcomes for all residents. Clatsop County's recent health equity assessment, conducted in partnership with Columbia and Tillamook Counties, identified key health factors such as housing, transportation, and poverty that impact community health.

Three primary priorities emerged from the assessment: enhancing family support and childcare services, addressing youth substance use, and improving the internal capacity of the public health department to promote health equity. These priorities reflect community input and align with state public health goals.

The county plans to engage in ongoing community outreach to gather feedback on these priorities, with a final health equity plan due to the state by June 30, 2025. The council emphasized the importance of incorporating community concerns, particularly regarding the homeless population and mental health issues, into the planning process.

While some council members expressed disappointment that homelessness and related drug and mental health issues were not prioritized, Quackenbush noted that there is already significant community momentum addressing these challenges. The county collaborates with local cities to provide shelter and services, but the public health department's role is distinct from behavioral health services.

As Clatsop County moves forward with its health equity plan, the focus remains on fostering community partnerships and ensuring that all residents have access to the resources they need for better health outcomes. The next steps will involve refining the plan based on community feedback and presenting it to the county commissioners in June.