REPRESENTING BUSINESS ISSUES
An Overview of Healthcare in Oregon during The Chamber of Medford & Jackson County Forum Keynote Speaker: Andrew Over, Regional Market Vice President for Regence BlueCross BlueShield; and Dr. Jim Polo, Executive Medical Director Sponsored by: Regence BlueCross BlueShield H ealthcare in Oregon — and throughout the country — is evolving, with new challenges and opportunities arising. According to Andrew Over, will use coping mechanisms that often exacerbate their problems. “If we do not treat these behavioral health challenges, they could lead to more severe physical problems,” said Polo.
Regional Market Vice President for Regence BlueCross BlueShield, the healthcare industry is tracking these important issues so they may create a better member experience. Over described some of the biggest challenges small businesses currently face, including security, inflation, supply chain issues and finding employees. Many of these problems surfaced, or intensified, during the pandemic. However, there were also many positive shifts across different industries, including healthcare. “One of the benefits of the pandemic was an increase in virtual care,” said Over. “This has equipped more providers with the necessary tools to meet members where they are on their health journey.” Over then introduced Executive Medical Director Dr. Jim Polo, who began by explaining that there were signs of a health crisis long before the pandemic occurred. “With a disaster like COVID, the initial impact is people getting sick,” Polo said. “But from an emotional perspective, the effects of the pandemic are still with us.” These impacts often manifest as a decrease in productivity, an increase in alcohol use and misuse, and difficulties due to a loss of human connection. If left untreated, people
This is one reason why employers are focusing more on supporting their employees’ mental health. Offering benefits which bolster mental health will help people build strong mental resilience. “When you have resilience, you can prepare for the future and bounce back from hardships,” said Polo. “The pandemic taught us the power of developing resiliency.” Polo then offered the audience four simple ways to build their own mental resilience: take care of your body; put down your phone; do things that bring you meaning; and find ways to help others. “When you have resilience, you can prepare for the future and bounce back from hardships.”
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The Business Review | February 2023
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