OHSU, Legacy Health End $1 Billion Merger

Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) and Legacy Health have mutually decided to terminate their planned $1 billion merger, which was announced in August 2023 after nearly two years of negotiations. The merger would have created one of Oregon’s largest health systems, combining 12 hospitals and over 32,000 employees. The decision came amid concerns from regulators, community advisory boards, and consumer advocates about reduced competition and increased healthcare costs, along with both organizations’ ongoing financial difficulties. The Oregon Health Authority’s Health Care Market Oversight Program was actively reviewing the deal when it was called off. Labor unions, including the Oregon Nurses Association, expressed disappointment but reaffirmed their commitment to advocating for frontline caregivers. Both OHSU and Legacy stated they would pursue independent strategies to support their communities in a changing healthcare environment.