As a concerned member of our community, I feel compelled to bring attention to the serious challenges Portland is currently facing regarding our emergency services. Individuals who are struggling with health issues, substance use, and mental health challenges are directly impacted by the strain on our emergency response system. A troubling number of 9-1-1 calls for non-emergent health issues are overwhelming our fire and rescue teams, preventing them from responding to more critical, life-threatening emergencies. This not only puts those in urgent need of care at risk but also exacerbates the health issues of vulnerable individuals who need support but are unable to receive it in a timely manner.

This is where the CHAT (Community Assess and Treat) program plays a crucial role. By providing real-time care and connecting individuals with the proper resources, the program prevents unnecessary trips to the emergency room and ensures that those in need of non-emergent care receive the appropriate support. Without continued funding for CHAT, we risk further burdening our already overwhelmed emergency services and leaving those in crisis without the timely care they desperately need.

The CHAT program does more than just address low-acuity 9-1-1 calls—it also helps tackle the opioid crisis head-on. The Overdose Response Teams (ORT) play a vital role in reducing overdose deaths, administering life-saving medications like buprenorphine, and guiding individuals toward crucial community resources like Medication for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD) clinics and shelters. If we don’t secure funding for this program, we will not only see a decline in immediate care for those in crisis, but the entire community will face higher healthcare costs, overcrowded emergency rooms, and worsening public safety concerns.

The need for funding is urgent. Every day, our fire and rescue teams are called upon to handle an overwhelming number of low-priority calls that could be better managed by the CHAT program. These calls delay responses to true emergencies, putting lives at risk. At the same time, the opioid crisis continues to ravage our community, and CHAT has made a real difference by connecting individuals with the help they need. If we want to address the root causes of addiction and mental health issues and improve our emergency response system, we must act now to ensure continued support for CHAT.

By investing in the CHAT program, we can create a more compassionate, efficient, and sustainable healthcare system. We can reduce strain on our emergency responders, guide individuals toward long-term health solutions, and ultimately build a healthier, safer Portland for everyone. Please, let’s not wait until it’s too late to make this critical investment.

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