August 2023 - Fires, Asbestos Contamination, AC for OHP Members
Monday, July 31, 2023
Recent HPO News
Legacy Good Sam Shooting Incident
A security officer was shot and killed at Legacy Good Samaritan Hospital on Saturday, 7/22. Another staff member was injured and is in stable condition. No patients were physically injured. The shooting suspect was later shot and killed by police in Gresham. Read Legacy’s statements and updates about the incident here.
Possible Contamination in Parkrose Neighborhood – Update
Asbestos was detected in debris found in Luuwit View Park on Thursday, 7/20. Preliminary results from fire debris samples collected on Friday, 7/21, show no other detection of asbestos. In air quality samples taken that same day, trace amounts of asbestos were identified.
· Read the latest press release from the Department of Environmental Quality here.
· Visit ordeq.org/kmartfire to find Frequently Asked Questions and other information.
· Individuals may call 211 or 866-698-6155 with questions and concerns.
UPS Strike Averted
UPS and the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, the union representing about 330,000 UPS employees in the US, reached a tentative collective bargaining agreement today, averting a possible strike that would have begun on 8/1. Learn more.
Fire Updates
·The Broken Gate wildfire near Wauna in Clatsop County was discovered on 7/23. It grew to 44 acres before being contained.
· The 224 Fire near Estacada in Clackamas County was 38 acres and 100% contained as of 3:00PM on 7/22.
Damaged Pfizer Plant – Pharmaceutical Supply Impacts Update
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is working with Pfizer to assess recent tornado damage to Pfizer’s manufacturing facility in North Carolina. The FDA does not expect immediate significant impacts on pharmaceutical supply.
· This facility supplies 8% (not 25% as initially reported) of U.S. injectable drug consumption.
· FDA is seeking additional sources for certain products and asking other manufacturers to prepare to ramp up production if needed.
· Read the 7/21 update from FDA here.
Air Filtration Devices and Air Conditioners for OHP Members
Oregon Health Authority and Oregon Department of Human Services have air filtration devices and air conditioners available for Oregonians currently or recently eligible for medical assistance through OHA, ODHS, or Medicare. Complete eligibility requirements and program details can be found here.
· Devices will be sent first to people with the highest risk of heat injury in geographically vulnerable areas.
· Air conditioners may only be distributed when the Governor declares an emergency due to extreme heat.
· To refer a qualified individual to this resource, health care organizations, community based organizations, or case managers may use this form. Completing the form does not guarantee delivery of the device.
