March 17, 2022 3:20 a.m.

Umpqua Health Alliance and Unite Us, an enterprise technology company providing the digital infrastructure to power integrated health and social care, are partnering to expand the coordinated care network known as Connect Oregon: https://oregon.uniteus.com/

A UHA release said this partnership will strengthen a commitment to create healthier communities and enhance the quality of life for Oregon residents most in need. The network establishes a single space where UHA can connect patients to local health, human, and community-based organizations in Douglas County and across the state, to address and improve whole-person care across sectors.

The release said the network enables health and social care providers to connect people to much-needed resources and services such as assistance with housing, behavioral health resources, social services, food insecurity and employment assistance. Community-based organizations that provide local social services can join Connect Oregon at no cost.

Umpqua Health Alliance CEO Brent Eichmann said its important to elevate social care to the same priority as healthcare to improve the community’s overall health.

Eichmann said, “There are many aspects of a person’s health that social determinates of health conditions impact, which are the places where people are born, live, work and play”. He said those conditions may impact a person’s health risks and outcomes Eichmann said with this partnership, the Douglas County community can prioritize social services and will meet people’s need outside the four walls of the doctor’s office.

To learn more about the services provided by the network, visit Connect Oregon, go to: https://oregon.uniteus.com/