A coalition born out of the need to address the COVID-19 pandemic in Clatsop County is re-engaging to strengthen efforts to create a healthier community.
The Clatsop County Rural Health Coalition is made up of six local organizations. “Coming together allows the coalition to achieve more than any one organization individually could,” said Viviana Matthews, Clatsop Community Action chief operating officer.
“We came together during the COVID-19 pandemic to better use the limited resources available to meet the healthcare needs of our rural community. Together, coalition members provided information, testing, personal protective equipment, and vaccinations to tens of thousands of Clatsop County residents,” said Chris Laman, vice president of strategy at Columbia Memorial Hospital.
“Right now, we are meeting as a coalition to start addressing substance use disorder in Clatsop County,” said Amy Baker, director of Clatsop Behavioral Health.
Coalition members are:
- Clatsop County Department of Public Health (CCDPH)
- Providence Seaside Hospital (PSH)
- Columbia Memorial Hospital (CMH)
- Clatsop Community Action (CCA)
- Clatsop Behavioral Health (CBH)
- Yakima Valley Farm Workers Clinic (Coastal Family)
“In 2024, the coalition collaboratively will produce the county’s Community Health Needs Assessment and Improvement,” said Jason Plamondon, chief nursing officer of Providence Seaside Hospital.
Clatsop County Rural Health Commission is dedicated to improving community health through the collaboration of organizations addressing healthcare needs and social determinants of health in Clatsop County. The coalition plans on meeting at least four times annually.