Multnomah County Community Health Council

The Health Department believes in partnerships to improve the health of our communities. The Community Health Council serves as the community advisory board for the Health Department, working closely with the Department's Director and the Board of County Commissioners to provide community guidance on a wide variety of public health issues, programs, and policies affecting Multnomah County residents.

What Does the Council Do?

It plays three roles:

• Advises the Health Department

  The Council provides leadership and guides the Health Department to fulfill its mission statement: In partnership with the diverse communities we serve, the Health Department assures, promotes, and protects the health of the people of Multnomah County.

• Serves as a link with the community

  The Council serves as a voice of the community. It attempts to bring diverse community needs to the attention of the Health Department as well as promote the Health Department and its mission to the community.

• Complies with State and Federal laws

  Since 1980, the Community Health Council has served as the board when required by federal grants to the Health Department, such as the Primary Care grant and Homeless grant.

2008 Council Accomplishments (PDF)

Read what the Council has to say about potential changes to Medicaid (PDF)

Health Care Policy Principles - developed by the CHC (PDF)

Meetings

The Council meets monthly on the second Monday of every month from 6-8pm. Meetings are open to the public, and language interpretation services are available.

During meetings, members hear from committee chairpersons, the Director and occasionally other senior staff who summarize current and emerging issues. Council members respond to reports and make recommendations to the Health Department. See the 2009 Schedule for dates and locations.

Why is Community Participation Important?

The Health Department recognizes that individuals and communities who are affected by public health issues must be involved in processes of program planning, development, implementation and evaluation. Members of the community know how to involve other members of the community, they have insight into what questions need to be asked and their perspective will help to find solutions. When community members are actively involved in the process, there is a better chance that Health Department services will be relevant and responsive to community needs.

What are the Benefits for Council Members?

Council members have the opportunity to:

• Stay informed about health issues and policies within the community
• Influence important decisions about health care
• Strengthen their leadership and group facilitation skills
• Meet a great group of people, including community members, health care providers and health department staff
• Share their own experiences with health care issues
• Feel proud of the valuable service and insight they have to offer
• Help others and give back to the community

How Can You Get Involved?

We are always searching for committed members.

The following vacancies are currently available:

• Consumer members

Monthly meetings are held on the second Monday of every month from 6:00-8:00 pm. Meetings are open to the public, and language interpretation services are available. Childcare and transportation reimbursement are provided for consumer members.

If you are interested in influencing decisions about health care services and public health programs, we encourage you to contact the Community Health Council. For more information about the next Council meeting or how to become a member, please contact:

Kate Lee, Manager
Multnomah County Health Department
Community Health Council
426 SW Stark Street, 8th Floor
Portland, Oregon 97204
503-988-3674 ext. 26113
503-519-3084 cell
kate.lee@co.multnomah.or.us

Updated April 13, 2010