First Lady Aimee Kotek Wilson to Lead Task Force Addressing Oregon’s Behavioral Health Workforce Crisis
Oregon’s First Lady Aimee Kotek Wilson has been appointed to chair a new task force focused on remedying the state’s alarming behavioral health workforce shortages, as announced by the governor’s office on Tuesday. This initiative comes amidst a widespread lack of mental health providers, with a recent report indicating that 88% of Oregon’s counties do not have a sufficient number of providers—one per 1,000 residents. The state also reports the fourth highest prevalence of mental illness in the nation.
The Behavioral Health Talent Council, comprising leaders from healthcare providers, state mental health agencies, and educational institutions, is tasked with developing strategies by January 2026 to enhance recruitment, reduce employee turnover, and increase diversity within the mental health workforce.
Kotek Wilson, a former social worker, emphasized her commitment to ensuring Oregonians have timely access to necessary healthcare services. “I’ve seen firsthand how workforce shortages affect both providers and patients,” she stated. The council aims to introduce actionable solutions to tackle these challenges.
Her appointment follows prior scrutiny regarding her involvement in her wife’s administration, which saw the exit of three of the governor’s top aides due to concerns over her expanding influence. Nonetheless, Oregon’s ethics agency has confirmed that Kotek Wilson can serve in her volunteer capacity, provided she does not receive compensation.
The council is set to convene for its inaugural meeting on Wednesday. This task force underscores a significant step towards addressing a critical public health issue that affects many Oregonians.
For further inquiries, please contact Sami Edge at The Oregonian.
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