Elected official email/letter template

Dear [Senator/Representative],

I am writing to express my concerns regarding the proposed acquisition of Legacy Health by Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU). As a constituent and healthcare worker/patient/consumer in our state, I believe this transaction warrants careful attention on behalf of our communities.

OHSU's acquisition of Legacy Health would result in control of five out of six hospitals in Multnomah County and seven out of 13 hospitals in the Portland tri-county area. This level of market control raises serious questions about potential impacts on healthcare costs, quality, and access.

Research has shown that healthcare consolidation often leads to higher prices, even at nearby hospitals not involved in the merger. There are also concerns about potential decreased wage growth for healthcare workers. OHSU’s response is that won’t happen because they have a high percentage of union members. However, that does not account for the entire workforce. While OHSU contends the benefits outweigh any potential loss of competition and the acquisition is necessary to “save Legacy Health from closing”. I don’t believe these statements to be true and ask that you inquire further.

Former Governor John Kitzhaber has raised important questions about this acquisition, noting that it "raises more questions than answers" and could increase healthcare costs for consumers. Governor Kitzhaber has also questioned how OHSU intends to cover the $1 billion it’s committed to capital and infrastructure improvements for Legacy Health. That equates to $100 million each of 10 years. This is an important question given OHSU closed its most recent fiscal year June 30, 2024 with a $97 million loss.

I am looking to you as the voice for me, my loved ones and my community. For all of us, please ask the hard questions about how this acquisition would improve healthcare for Oregon and SW Washington. We need your attention now, so we don’t look back with regret if this acquisition results in decreased access, higher costs and decreased quality care. 

Please continue to ask the Oregon Health Authority’s Health Care Market Oversight program for specifics on how this acquisition truly serves the public interest by improving health equity, lowering consumer costs, increasing access, and enhancing care quality.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter affecting the health and well-being of Oregonians.

Sincerely,

[Your name and address]