Oregon, California, Washington, and Hawaii have joined forces to form a West Coast Health Alliance. The partnership aims to coordinate vaccine guidelines after changes at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
The alliance responds to recent decisions by the Trump administration, including the removal of all members from the CDC’s vaccine advisory panel. Governors of the four states said the move threatens public health and undermines trust in science-based guidance.
Oregon Governor Tina Kotek, California Governor Gavin Newsom, and Washington Governor Bob Ferguson said the mass firing of CDC doctors and scientists is a direct threat to Americans’ health. Hawaii joined the alliance on September 4, a day after the group was formed.
Sejal Hathi, director of the Oregon Health Authority, emphasized the importance of reliable vaccine information. She said people should receive guidance that is “grounded in science, not ideology.”
“Vaccines are among the most powerful tools in medicine. They have saved millions of lives. When guidance becomes inconsistent or politicized, it harms public trust at the time it is most needed,” Hathi said. “Oregon, California, and Washington are committed to evidence-based recommendations that protect health, save lives, and restore confidence in public health.”
The alliance will coordinate vaccine guidance across the four states. It will ensure that public recommendations follow scientific evidence from trusted national organizations.
A spokesperson for the Oregon Health Authority said the alliance also plans to protect access to vaccines and reduce out-of-pocket costs for consumers whenever possible.
The West Coast Health Alliance reflects a growing effort by states to take independent action when federal guidance is viewed as politicized. The collaboration allows states to provide consistent information to residents and maintain high public trust in vaccines.
Experts say clear guidance is critical as vaccine schedules evolve and new diseases emerge. Coordinated state efforts can help prevent confusion and improve vaccination rates.
The alliance will focus on public communication strategies, ensuring that information reaches communities quickly and clearly. By sharing data and best practices, the states aim to strengthen local health systems and support evidence-based decision-making.
Hathi noted that public confidence in vaccines depends on transparency and scientific rigor. The alliance plans to update guidance regularly, based on the latest research and national recommendations.
The initiative comes amid nationwide debates over vaccine safety and the role of federal agencies. By acting together, the West Coast states hope to set a standard for science-based public health policy.
Officials say that collaboration between states can also provide a model for other regions facing similar challenges. Through coordinated efforts, the alliance aims to safeguard health, reduce barriers to care, and ensure residents receive accurate, reliable vaccine guidance.
The West Coast Health Alliance represents a proactive approach to public health. Leaders stress that evidence-based practices must guide decisions to maintain trust, save lives, and protect communities.
