Every five years, we create a Regional Health Improvement Plan (RHIP). The RHIP is a vision and strategy created and owned by our Central Oregon communities to improve health in specific ways. Current areas of focus are:

- - Access and quality of health care
  - Alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs
  - Housing
  - Mental health
  - Nutrition and physical Activity
  - Transportation

The RHIP is a guide that we and our partners use to promote and advance health in Central Oregon. It helps us develop programs, projects, and policies to make communities healthier and improve the well-being of everyone living here. The plan is written collectively with our partners in Central Oregon, including the tricounty public health departments, health workers, community-based organizations and service providers, and members of the community. Putting the RHIP into action involves local organizations and partners working together to address health problems, set goals, and find solutions. Visit the the Central Oregon Health Data website for the full 2025–2029 Regional Health Improvement Plan.

COHC is working to carry out this RHIP in a more impactful, collaborative, and community-centered way, which means changes to how it’s been done previously. See the FAQs below to answer questions on why and how it will look different than before. At the bottom of the page you can find current and past RHIP documents and reports. If you’d like to get connect with other organizations and find out ways to collaborate on shared work and pool resources, please take the RHIP Request for Information survey, if you haven’t already.

CHECK OUT OUR NEW 2025–2029 RHIP TOOLKIT!

FAQs: Implementing the RHIP in a New Way

Why has the Central Oregon Health Council changed how it implements the RHIP?

This change reflects what we’ve learned over years of implementation: sustainable community health improvements require stronger alignment and shared ownership across organizations. Rather than acting as the sole driver and funder, COHC is shifting to a connector, supporter, and amplifier—to better serve the work you’re already doing and increase our collective impact.

What does the new “supporting and convening” role actually look like?

COHC will focus on:

- Facilitating connections across sectors and coalitions
- Helping match partners working on similar RHIP objectives
- Sharing tools, data, and learning
- Providing partial funding where alignment is strong
- Listening and adapting based on evolving community needs

We’re here to support your work, not duplicate or replace it.

What happened to the workgroups? Will they continue?

The formal, COHC-led monthly workgroups used in past RHIP cycles will not continue in the same format. Instead, COHC will encourage and support more organic, goal-driven partnerships that emerge directly from organizations and communities working on RHIP objectives.

Will there still be funding opportunities?

Yes, but done differently. In the past, COHC provided full funding for projects. Moving forward, partial funding will be available (but not guaranteed) to projects identified to advance specific RHIP objectives. This targeted approach will also focus on projects that demonstrate collaborative potential. You can find out more by connecting with us through this Request for Information (RFI).

How can my organization be part of this new model?

Start by reviewing the RHIP and identifying where your work fits. COHC wants to know:

- What are you already doing that supports RHIP goals?
- Where could partnership or resources amplify your efforts?
- What support do you need to increase your impact?

Respond to the RFI to share your role in the RHIP ecosystem.

What support will COHC offer to help partners engage with the RHIP?

COHC has launched a “Be Well Central Oregon” campaign for RHIP collaborators that will include:

- User-friendly tools to simplify access to the RHIP and RHA
- Visuals and language that humanize the work and show its relevance
- Customizable materials that partners can use to communicate their alignment and impact

We’re committed to making these resources actionable and accessible.

What if I’m new to the RHIP or unsure how my work fits in?

You’re not alone. The updated RHIP is designed to be inclusive and far-reaching. If you’re not sure where to start, COHC can help you navigate the objectives, make connections, and explore ways to contribute. The upcoming tools and communications plan will help clarify pathways to involvement.

Is this a temporary shift or a long-term direction?

This is a long-term evolution based on years of experience, feedback, and reflection. It’s designed to build stronger, more sustainable systems of collaboration across Central Oregon. The RHIP remains the guiding framework—this new model simply changes how we get there, together.

What if I have a project idea but need help finding collaborators?

That’s exactly what this model is designed for. COHC will act as a matchmaker, helping you identify and connect with potential partners across the region. Reach out through the RFI to express your needs and ideas and become part of a regional collaborative network to make bigger impacts and respond to emerging community needs.

How does this approach benefit organizations and our communities?

By prioritizing existing work, honing in on RHIP objectives, and fostering collaboration first, we:

- Strengthen ongoing efforts rather than duplicating them
- Build a more connected and coordinated network of partners working toward shared goals
- Target resources more effectively to strategically fill critical gaps
- Promote accountability through measurable outcomes
- Strengthen partnerships among organizations, experts, and community members
- Support sustainable, systemic solutions instead of short-term fixes

This model is designed to elevate the great work already happening—and help it go further.

Who can I contact with more questions or ideas?

Feel free to reach out to info@cohealthcouncil.org. We’re here to support you and want to know how we can make this transition as helpful and collaborative as possible.