County Jobs at Risk: What's Happening and Why?

Multnomah County is grappling with a challenging situation regarding its behavioral health services. Up to 21 full-time jobs may be cut, with an additional 17 roles at risk for the next fiscal year. This crisis stems from a significant reduction in funding from CareOregon, the state's largest Medicaid provider. The county's board will soon decide on these cuts.

Programs Impacted

The Youth and Adult Care Coordination program will be the hardest hit. This vital program, which helps individuals access behavioral health resources, could lose over 18 jobs. The jail care coordination program might also see two jobs eliminated, while the Behavioral Health Center could lose an additional position.

Uncertainty and Savings

It remains unclear how many of these positions are currently vacant or how many employees might be affected. The county has been relatively silent on the matter. However, there is a plan to save 17 other jobs by allocating $2.4 million from the county's budget. These roles include care coordinators, medical records staff, and quality managers.

Broader Context

The behavioral health division employs approximately 330 people. The future remains uncertain due to the county's tight budget. The funding from CareOregon may not be restored. Health Share of Oregon, which oversees CareOregon, anticipates financial losses due to rising healthcare costs and other factors.

Regional Challenges

Other counties are facing similar issues. Clackamas County has cut 27 jobs in its behavioral and public health divisions, with around 15 of these losses attributed to CareOregon's reductions. Washington County expects a $3.8 million loss, impacting around 18 to 20 jobs. However, they managed to reassign many affected staff, resulting in only three layoffs by the end of the year.