Southern Oregon Hospitals Generate $3.1 Billion in Economic Activity

Medford, Oregon- Southern Oregon hospitals contribute $3.1 billion to the regional economy and support nearly 15,000 jobs, according to a new economic impact study released today by the Hospital Association of Oregon. The report highlights the financial role of hospitals in Jackson, Josephine, and Klamath counties and emphasizes the need for their stability to ensure continued patient care and access to health services.

The study found that Oregon’s community hospitals directly employ 6,310 workers in southern Oregon, with a total payroll exceeding $841.9 million. Additionally, through the purchase of goods and services, hospitals indirectly support a total of 14,940 jobs in the region, with combined wages amounting to $1.3 billion.

“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 support 160,000 jobs. These hospitals directly employ nearly 70,000 people in roles that range from nurses and doctors to respiratory therapists, medical assistants, environmental services, and support staff.

The report comes at a time when many hospitals are facing financial challenges. Recent data indicates that more than half of Oregon’s community hospitals are consistently unable to cover the full cost of providing care.

“We can’t have a strong Oregon without strong community hospitals,” Hultberg said. “It is important that we recognize the tremendous contributions they make in every corner of our state and take action to support community hospitals so they can continue to offer the services we all depend on.”