Vital Role of Migrants in the State Economy
The State of Oregon recognizes the vital role that migrant and seasonal farmworkers play in the state's economy.
An estimated 174,000 migrant and seasonal farmworkers, and related family members, support Oregon’s multi-billion dollar agricultural industry. Most of these workers and their families do not have health care coverage through their employer. As a result, migrant and seasonal farmworkers experience higher rates of specific health problems such as diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease and cancer than most other Oregonians. In response to this need, the federal government, through the Bureau of Primary Health Care, has set aside funding for health centers that serve the migrant and seasonal farmworker community.
In recognition of the positive contributions made by this medically underserved community, OHA's Division of Equity and Inclusion is working to increase medical access to migrant and seasonal farm workers and their families. Our team is further committed to reducing access barriers for this productive yet vulnerable community.
Learn more about the work to improve migrant health.