The Oregon Nurses Association responded Monday to Asante CEO Tom Gessel’s employee memo outlining financial losses and projected job cuts. The union criticized Asante executives over past and proposed reductions, challenged the health system’s explanation for its financial strain, and called for leadership to work with nurses and techs on solutions.

Asante President and CEO Tom Gessel told employees that the health system is facing a $16 million operating loss for the first half of the fiscal year and could face a $50 million shortfall in 2027 without action. The memo says Asante expects to eliminate 300 or more roles while reviewing costs, services, and operations.