SALEM, Ore. – Multiple local union-represented healthcare workers were in Salem Tuesday. According to the Oregon Nurses Association (ONA), they’re demanding lawmakers hold Asante accountable for cuts, alleged staffing law violations and more.
Southern Oregon nurses, healthcare professionals and NICU doctors who were terminated by Asante, met with lawmakers at the Oregon State Capitol. The ONA said Asante is responsible for closures such as maternity and inpatient services at Ashland’s only hospital, multiple outpatient clinics, and the Southern Oregon Surgery Center.
On top of that, the ONA said in recent years there’s been hundreds of layoffs and frequent safe staffing law violations. The organization attributes these to longer waits, rising costs, staffing shortages and fewer healthcare options. Workers tell us they’re being spread thin. Asante Rogue Regional Medical Center (RRMC) nurse and ONA member, Natasha Sheridan said,…