Tina Kotek is calling on PeaceHealth to delay and reconsider a major change to emergency room staffing across Lane County.
Proposed shift to out-of-state staffing company
PeaceHealth recently announced it will end its long-standing partnership with Eugene Emergency Physicians and instead contract with ApolloMD, an Atlanta-based firm.
The transition would affect emergency departments in Springfield, Cottage Grove, and Florence.
Governor raises safety and staffing concerns
In a letter to hospital leadership, Kotek requested a six-month delay, citing concerns about patient safety and the potential loss of experienced local physicians.
She warned the change could worsen healthcare access in a region already impacted by staffing shortages and recent disruptions.
Regulatory scrutiny and transparency issues
The governor said her office is working with the Oregon Medical Board to monitor whether enough licensed physicians will be available during the transition.
She also raised concerns about transparency and urged PeaceHealth to share details about how the decision was made.
Lawmakers push for oversight review
State lawmakers are also urging both PeaceHealth and ApolloMD to participate in a review by the Oregon Health Authority under its Health Care Market Oversight program.
The move comes amid broader concerns about corporate influence in healthcare decisions.
Local doctors resist transition
Members of Eugene Emergency Physicians have reportedly pledged not to work under the new staffing arrangement, raising further questions about whether the transition can be implemented smoothly.
PeaceHealth responds
In a statement, PeaceHealth said it is committed to transparency and will respond to concerns raised by the governor and lawmakers while continuing to plan for the transition.
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