Oregon has established the Behavioral Health Talent Council to offer new strategies to address the state’s behavioral health workforce crisis.
The new council will develop a recommended workforce action plan by January 31, 2026, to expand on the recommendations of another state commission.
The 22-member council brings together experts that include providers, healthcare administrators, licensing authorities, educational institutions, and behavioral health professionals.
The council will specifically focus on four main goals: addressing the workforce shortage previously identified by the state, preventing the loss of workers at high risk of turnover, increasing the cultural competency and diversity of the workforce, and improving recruitment and retention for providers serving Medicaid enrollees.
The council will develop recommended action plans based on the assessment and develop strategies, milestones, timelines, and potential legislative and investment proposals necessary for implementation for consideration by the governor.
