Oregon Hospitals Boost Economy with $32.4 Billion and 160,000 Jobs While Struggling to Stay Afloat

The vital role of hospitals in Oregon—over and above the lives saved and healthcare to Oregonians—was highlighted in an economic impact study published by the Hospital Association of Oregon.

The study indicated that community hospitals generate $32.4 billion in economic activity while supporting 160,000 jobs statewide.

Oregon Hospitals Economic Contribution

Becky Hultberg, president and CEO of the Hospital Association of Oregon, confirmed that Oregon’s community hospitals are pillars of the community as foundational hospitals that provide jobs at every educational level and help spur growth in the local economy.

Hospitals employ almost 70,000 people as nurses, doctors, respiratory therapists, environmental services, medical assistants, support staff, and more, as well as complementary staff in other areas of essential hospital services.

Employment of people in hospitals is central to providing healthcare services. Yet many hospitals are struggling, and the latest data shows that over half of Oregon’s community hospitals are consistently unable to cover care costs.

As a result, hospitals are being forced to reduce or eliminate services.

Hutlberg confirmed the importance of recognizing the tremendous contributions hospitals make in every corner of Oregon and highlighted the need to take action to support community hospitals to enable them to be in a position to continue to offer the services everyone depends on.

She said, “We can’t have a strong Oregon without strong community hospitals.”

The report emphasizes the vital role hospitals play in the state’s economy and underlines the need for their financial stability to improve patient care and provide access to health services.