SALEM, Ore. – Oregon Health Authority (OHA) is welcoming Brooke Emery as the agency’s new Principal Ombuds. She is responsible for leading the Ombuds Program at OHA. Emery is stepping into the role after Ellen Pinney, who helped build the Ombuds Program, retired last December after 15 years of service.  Like Pinney, Emery brings a wealth of experience and a strong dedication to serving people in Oregon. Most recently, she served as a Policy Analyst in the CCO Services Unit within OHA’s Medicaid Division. Her prior leadership roles include positions at Lane County Developmental Disabilities Services, the Lane Council of Governments and Senior and People with Disabilities.   Emery’s career began as a Service Case Manager and progressed through roles in Adult Protective Services, Disabilities Unit management and as Program Manager for Medicaid Services. She was later promoted to Deputy Director of Senior and Disability Services where she oversaw all Medicaid and Older Americans Act programs.  “I am honored to step into this role and continue advocating for Oregon Health Plan members across the state,” said Emery.  “I believe deeply in the power of listening to people’s experiences and using that insight to drive meaningful change.”   Who Should Contact the Ombuds Program:  The Ombuds Program is available to OHP members who have concerns about OHP or Medicaid that they’re unable to solve with their CCO. Members can also contact the Ombuds Program to share a success.  Ombuds can be reached toll free at 877-642-0450 or via email ([email protected]).  Members may find they can resolve their issue before contacting ombuds by speaking with either their CCO or OHP Client Services.  Members can contact their CCO by visiting OHA’s CCO contact web page. They can reach Client Services at 1-800-273-0557 for answers and other resources.