The PSU Regional Research Institute for Human Services (RRI) was asked by Klamath Basin Behavioral Health (KBBH) and the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) to conduct a community-wide needs assessment focusing on residential services and housing needs for populations that:
- Have behavioral health needs, and
- Identify with a community experiencing inequities in access to health care resources.
The assessment was conducted in collaboration with KBBH and other community partners. Data sources included key informant interviews, written surveys of individuals impacted by mental health challenges and/or housing needs, and focus groups with representatives from underserved communities in Klamath County, Oregon. Funding for this project was provided by a grant from the Oregon Health Authority as part of a larger OHA effort to eliminate behavioral health inequities by 2030.
Research Methods
- Literature Review: Existing documents and relevant academic was identified and reviewed.
- Key Informant Interviews: PSU RRI contacted more than 50 community stakeholders to
understand existing health inequities and service gaps. Service providers were also asked for
their ideas on how to best serve their community.
- Focus Groups: PSU RRI facilitated eleven focus groups with community members to understand
service gaps.
- Community Survey (web and paper): KBBH and other partners distributed a brief written survey
developed by PSU to the people they serve. Surveys were used to understand health inequities
and service gaps.
- Analysis of secondary data: KBBH data specialists contributed aggregate consumer data to
identify health inequities and service gaps for underserved populations.