Concerns over Clackamas County's healthcare policy process took center stage during the recent Policy Session on October 23, 2024. Commissioner West expressed frustration over feeling blindsided by the current healthcare procedures, particularly regarding prior authorization processes that hinder preventative care. "I'm caught, like, as a policy maker... completely blindsided as if it was just not taken seriously," West stated, highlighting a disconnect between policy decisions and the health needs of individuals.

The discussion revealed a deep concern about the lack of communication and understanding surrounding healthcare policies. West criticized the existing system for prioritizing numbers over individual patient care, emphasizing the need for a more human-centered approach to health services. "We seem to be more interested in people getting sick and having expensive costs," West lamented, calling for a shift in focus towards preventative measures that could improve community health.

Commissioner Schrader added to the conversation, acknowledging the complexities of the healthcare system that contribute to these issues. "We're also up against the monolith of the healthcare system," she noted, sharing her own struggles to access timely medical care. This sentiment resonated with the group, underscoring the systemic barriers that complicate healthcare access and policy implementation.

As the meeting concluded, the commissioners recognized the need for ongoing dialogue and collaboration with healthcare professionals to address these challenges. The session highlighted a critical moment for Clackamas County as it navigates the intricacies of healthcare policy, with a clear call for reform that prioritizes patient care and preventative health strategies. The commissioners expressed a commitment to improving the process moving forward, aiming to ensure that individual health needs are at the forefront of policy discussions.