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To the OHA team:
How many times have you been completely focused on your work and an hour passes like a minute? It’s a productive hour well spent, and that hour turns into two, then an entire day. String these days together and they become years; those years create a career. Today, two of OHA’s most respected colleagues are leaving for new opportunities. I’m inspired by their service.
 Suzanne Hoffman, our chief operating officer, has worked for the state for 30 years. When OHA was formed, Suzanne, as chief of staff, used her broad base of administrative skills to create our agency's strong internal foundation. In her role as interim agency director, Suzanne was instrumental in implementing the triple aim in Oregon and transforming the state's health system landscape. Suzanne is a steady leader who provided me with a helpful and gracious transition after my arrival. I’m grateful for her intelligence, empathy and calm demeanor.
 Judy Mohr Peterson joined the state 18 years ago and has been OHA’s state Medicaid director since 2009. She led the way through the creation of the coordinated care model and Medicaid expansion. Judy’s work is a prime reason 95 percent of our residents have health insurance and Oregon is a national leader in health system transformation. It is entirely fitting that Judy expand her expertise to another state as Hawaii’s state Medicaid director to help lead health system transformation there.
I’m inspired by these women and their commitment to provide Oregonians with access to better health. They exemplify our core values and have made a lasting contribution to OHA, and most importantly to the people of this state. I thank them for their dedication and leadership, and for helping Oregon to become a national leader in health system transformation.
Thank you and good luck,
Lynne
To your health: Summer officially starts this weekend, so it’s a good time to remember some basic safety tips to keep us healthy when we’re enjoying outdoor summer activities. Use life jackets when boating and never swim alone. Use a helmet when cycling, scootering, skateboarding or roller skating (it’s Oregon law for kids age 15 and younger). Use food safety when barbecuing or picnicking, such as keeping food chilled and cooking meat thoroughly. Wear sunscreen. Protect yourself from mosquitoes to avoid illness. Drink plenty of water. Stay cool and most of all, enjoy the natural wonders of our beautiful state.
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