Content warning: In support of trauma-informed communications, please be aware that this message contains topics that may be activating for survivors of gun violence and those who have been impacted by gun violence. The Confidential Advocacy Program can be reached 24/7 by calling 833-495-2277. Additional resources for OHSU members are available.

There are not words to convey our collective exhaustion, anger and grief at the tragic regularity of mass shooting incidents. We know that news of violent events at medical centers in Oklahoma and Ohio hit close to home. Our hearts are with the victims and the many individuals who are impacted by these tragedies.

Please know that OHSU’s Department of Public Safety is here to support all OHSU members. If you witness or experience concerning behavior, Public Safety offers resources and guidance to help you. Public Safety’s Threat Assessment Team is highly trained for early intervention to de-escalate any potentially violent situation. The team utilizes an evidence-based tool to evaluate specific behaviors and situational factors to determine threat, safety planning and how to help mitigate a potential threat.

You can contact Public Safety’s non-emergency line at 503-494-7744 (4-7744), or in an emergency, if you are on campus, at 503-494-4444 (4-4444). It is a good idea to save both of these numbers in your personal phone.

Incidents to report to Public Safety so that they may provide you support and ensure your safety at work include when:

• Someone threatens you or OHSU directly, or when you see bullying or “low-level” forms of aggression;
• You become aware of a direct or indirect threat against any person or OHSU;
• You become concerned about any person’s behavior or statements at OHSU;
• You become concerned about potential violence in your personal life  

A reminder, OHSU policy No. 07-30-010 prohibits firearms of any kind inside an OHSU facility or at an OHSU event with limited exceptions for credentialed law enforcement, military and corrections personnel as well as private security conducting official business on behalf of OHSU. Any patient or visitor needing to temporarily store a firearm while visiting an OHSU facility can contact the Department of Public Safety for assistance. 

During this time, we want to again remind everyone of the resources available if you need support. OHSU offers the Employee Assistance Program, Confidential Advocacy Program and Resident and Faculty Wellness Program. OHSU offers additional emotional support resources for employees and students to help in dealing with these tragedies.