March 3, 2025
The Hospital Association of Oregon announced findings from a new economic impact study which found that hospitals in Eastern Oregon generate $995 million in economic activity in Baker, Grant, Harney, Morrow, Malheur, Lake, Umatilla, Union, Wallowa, Gilliam, and Wheeler counties and help create more than 5,800 jobs in the region.
The report highlights the vital role hospitals play in the regional economy and reinforces the need for their financial stability to protect patient care and access to health services.
“Good Shepherd Health Care System (GSHCS) proudly employs more than 1,200 staff members and 200 credentialed physicians and other health care providers who share our commitment to the health and well-being of Eastern Oregon,” said Good Shepherd President & CEO Art Mathisen. “Beyond providing high quality health care, our organization is deeply embedded in the fabric of the communities we serve.”
The report notes that Oregon’s community hospitals employ 3,680 workers in Eastern Oregon, with a payroll topping $367.1 million. Additionally, through purchasing goods and services, hospitals help create a total of 5,840 jobs in the area with a payroll of $465.7 million.
“GSHCS is not only a place of healing but also a key contributor to economic growth by offering stable jobs with 100% employer-covered medical, dental and vision premiums, as well as educational opportunities, student scholarships, community improvement grants and free or reduced care totaling nearly $10 million. Since 1954, GSHCS has been proud to be part of such a vital network that keeps our communities healthy and strong,” said Mathisen.
“Oregon’s community hospitals are more than just places we turn to when we are sick or injured—they are pillars of our community,” said Becky Hultberg, president and CEO of the Hospital Association of Oregon. “In every area of our state, the local hospital is a foundational employer, offering jobs at every educational level and helping spur growth in the local economy.”
Statewide, Oregon’s community hospitals generate $32.4 billion in economic activity and help create 160,000 jobs. Hospitals directly employ nearly 70,000 people in positions ranging from nurses and doctors to respiratory therapists, environmental services, medical assistants, support staff, and more.
This report underscores the important role that hospitals play in Oregon communities, and it comes at a time when many hospitals are struggling. The latest data shows that more than half of Oregon’s community hospitals are consistently not able to cover the costs of providing care.
“We can’t have a strong Oregon without strong community hospitals,” said Hultberg. “It is important that we recognize the tremendous contributions they make in every corner or our state and take action to support community hospitals so they can continue to offer the services we all depend on.”
