OHSU Faces Opposition in Acquisition of Legacy Health

Deal News | Apr 22, 2025 | EIN

OHSU Faces Opposition in Acquisition of Legacy Health

Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) is facing opposition in its proposed acquisition of Legacy Health, as the community review board has unanimously voted against the merger. Despite this, the ultimate decision rests with the Oregon Health Authority's Health Care Market Oversight Program, which has been evaluating the proposal since August 2023. The community review board, comprising various stakeholders, expressed concerns over potential effects on health care costs, service choices, and workforce implications in Oregon. Even though the community board cannot approve or reject the merger, its recommendation may influence the authority's decision, expected this summer. The transaction, if approved, would make OHSU Health the largest employer in the Portland metro area, with over 32,000 employees and managing more than 3 million patient visits annually. The Oregon Health Authority has paused its review process occasionally to accommodate information requests from both health systems.

Sectors

  • Healthcare
  • Mergers & Acquisitions

Geography

  • United States – The article focuses on the acquisition process within the United States, specifically involving healthcare systems based in Oregon.
  • Oregon – The proposed acquisition directly impacts healthcare services in Oregon and involves regulatory review by the Oregon Health Authority.

Industry

  • Healthcare – The article pertains to the potential merger of two significant healthcare entities in Oregon, impacting healthcare service delivery and employment.
  • Mergers & Acquisitions – The article discusses the proposed acquisition of Legacy Health by OHSU, involving regulatory review and community opposition.

Financials

  • More than 32,000 employees – The size of the combined workforce of OHSU Health post-acquisition.
  • More than 100 locations – The number of locations the combined entity OHSU Health would operate.
  • 3 million patient visits annually – The expected patient volume for the combined health system.

Participants

NameRoleTypeDescription
Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU)Bidding CompanyCompanyA leading academic health center proposing the acquisition of Legacy Health.
Legacy HealthTarget CompanyCompanyA nonprofit healthcare system based in Oregon targeted for acquisition by OHSU.
Oregon Health AuthorityRegulatory BodyGovernmentResponsible for the final decision on the approval of the OHSU-Legacy merger.
Community Review BoardAdvisoryOtherA group comprising healthcare professionals, patients, and business representatives reviewing the merger impact.