We, the undersigned, urge the Oregon Health Authority to block the merger between OHSU and Legacy Health. The proposed combination of these two healthcare entities will have serious, long-lasting consequences for the people of Oregon, threatening the quality of healthcare, accessibility, and the financial stability of our healthcare system.

Why This Merger Should Not Move Forward:

Increased Healthcare Costs for Oregonians
The merger will likely lead to higher healthcare costs for patients across the state. With fewer healthcare providers in the market, OHSU and Legacy Health would gain disproportionate control, allowing them to increase prices and limit patient choices. Oregonians will face skyrocketing medical bills and fewer affordable options for care.

Potential for Service Reductions
This merger may lead to the closure or consolidation of vital healthcare services and facilities, particularly in rural and underserved areas. Patients could be forced to travel long distances to access essential care, exacerbating health disparities and creating barriers to access for those who already face challenges in reaching healthcare.

Monopoly Power in the Healthcare Market
A combined OHSU and Legacy Health would result in a near-monopoly in the region’s healthcare market, reducing competition and consumer choice. Monopolies often lead to a decline in quality of care as the incentive to improve service diminishes. The focus of healthcare could shift from patient care to maximizing profit, harming the overall healthcare system in Oregon.

Job Insecurity for Healthcare Workers
Many dedicated healthcare professionals at both OHSU and Legacy Health face the possibility of job losses or reduced work conditions. And while some union members have increased protections, the merging of two major institutions could result in layoffs, a demoralized workforce, and a potential loss of skilled providers. This would negatively impact the quality of care and the overall work environment for healthcare employees.

Loss of Community Funding and Support
As OHSU takes on the financial burden of integrating Legacy Health, there is a significant risk that resources previously allocated for community outreach, support programs, and local services will be diverted to cover the costs of the expanded system. This shift in funding priorities could severely impact crucial community-based healthcare programs, reducing support for vulnerable populations, and limiting access to essential services that are already underfunded in Oregon.

What We Are Asking From the Oregon Health Authority:

We call on the Oregon Health Authority to block the merger between OHSU and Legacy Health. The merger would only serve to harm Oregonians by reducing competition, increasing costs, and diminishing the quality of care. We urge you to prioritize the well-being of Oregon’s residents over corporate consolidation and ensure that our healthcare system remains accessible, affordable, and equitable for all.