Danielle Bethell: Why health crisis teams work

By Danielle Bethell for Governor,
Newseltter

This week in Salem, something important happened, and it’s a good example of the kind of leadership Oregon needs more of.

But it didn’t come out of the state house, and it’s not because of the Legislature.

Marion County and the City of Salem officially launched the REACH behavioral health crisis team, a new six-month pilot designed to respond to mental health and substance use emergencies with the right kind of help, not just lights, sirens, or a trip to the ER.

The REACH team brings together an EMT, a paramedic, and a mental health professional to respond during peak demand hours. The goal is straightforward: reach people earlier in crisis, connect them to real services, and reduce the cycle of repeat 911 calls that strains first responders and emergency rooms.

As a Marion County Commissioner, I’ve seen firsthand how overwhelmed our systems have become. Salem Fire call volume has nearly doubled over the past decade, while staffing has declined. Families in crisis deserve better outcomes, and first responders deserve support that actually works.

What makes REACH different is accountability. This pilot will be evaluated using real data — emergency room visits, repeat calls, and connections to care. If it works, it should be expanded. If it doesn’t, we need to be honest and adjust. That’s how responsible government operates.

This approach is exactly why I’m running for governor.

For too long, Oregon has relied on sweeping policies and press conferences instead of practical solutions and follow-through. As governor, I will focus on early intervention, coordination across agencies, and results that can be measured — not ideology, not excuses.

Programs like REACH show what’s possible when leaders are willing to partner, adapt, and hold themselves accountable. Oregon needs that mindset at the state level.

Thank you for being part of this campaign and for believing that Oregon can do better — with leadership that’s grounded, serious, and focused on results.