March 3, 2023 11:20 a.m. 

On Friday, Governor Tina Kotek announced that she is beginning a search for a permanent director of the Oregon Health Authority.

A release from the Governor’s office said Interim Director James Schroeder will be stepping down effective March 17th.

Schroeder said, “It has been an honor to serve the state and assist the agency during this time of transition. Instead of pursuing the permanent director position, I am choosing to focus on my family. I want to thank the Governor and the talented staff at OHA for prioritizing the health and well-being of Oregonians and tackling the most urgent challenges facing our state”.

The release said during his time at OHA, Interim Director Schroder helped the agency move forward the new 1115 Medicaid waiver, manage Medicaid redetermination, and prioritize behavioral health, including onboarding key leadership to lead that critical work.

Kotek thanked Schroder for jumping in on day one of her administration to lead OHA. Kotek said she is looking forward to bringing on a permanent director who will lead the agency in carrying its work forward.