Oregon is facing a significant shortage in capacity to treat individuals with mental health and addiction issues according to a report released by the Oregon Health Authority. The state will need over 3,700 more beds by the fall of 2025 to treat about 8,100 patients at a time, a number much higher than previously estimated. Residential facilities are needed for individuals with severe mental health or addiction issues, and the state currently falls short with only about 55% of the required beds. Public Consulting Group suggests investing $170 million annually over the next five years to create 650 new beds per year as part of the solution.
In addition to adding beds, the report emphasizes the need to expand the workforce in the mental health and addiction treatment field, where low wages and hiring difficulties are prevalent. The state must focus on expanding both capacity and workforce to make a real change in the behavioral health system. Furthermore, the report highlights the importance of improving access to mental health and addiction support services to help individuals stay within their communities.
Oregon has been increasing investment in behavioral health in recent years, with the Legislature approving over $1.5 billion to add more beds and raise reimbursement rates. Despite these efforts, the state still faces challenges, such as the fentanyl crisis and a shortage of outpatient treatment capacity. The report emphasizes that all regions in Oregon require more beds, with the Portland area and north coast having the biggest gap. State officials, Governor Tina Kotek’s office, and lawmakers will use the findings to guide future decisions on closing the behavioral health gap and improving access to treatment services.
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