Providence Health Plan will leave most individual, family and employer group insurance plans beginning in 2027. Current coverage remains unchanged through 2026, but many Oregon members and employers will need new coverage options next year.

Asante says its hospitals, emergency departments and immediate care locations will remain open as the health system moves forward with layoffs and cost-cutting efforts. The organization says 300 or more employees may be affected in fiscal year 2026 as it works to address rising expenses, lower reimbursement rates and other financial pressures.

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.

Southern Oregon communities are included in a new rural healthcare funding initiative that could expand school nursing services, support local hospitals and clinics, and create new grant opportunities for regional providers.