Grande Ronde Hospital CEO Testifies Before Senate Finance Committee on Rural Health Care Issues

Grande Ronde Hospital CEO Testifies Before Senate Committee on Rural Health Care Challenges

In a compelling testimony before the Senate Finance Committee, Jeremy Davis, President and CEO of Grande Ronde Hospital, shed light on the critical issues and priorities faced by rural hospitals. Located in La Grande, Oregon, Grande Ronde Hospital serves as a lifeline for the community, providing essential health services to a region with unique challenges.

Covering over 2,000 square miles of mountainous terrain, Grande Ronde Hospital plays a vital role in ensuring accessible and quality healthcare for Union County residents. With a median household income below the state average and a significant poverty rate, the hospital serves a population in need of specialized care and support.

Davis, a native of Baker City, Oregon, emphasized the hospital’s commitment to improving health outcomes by focusing on chronic disease prevention, addressing social determinants of health, and expanding access to healthcare providers in the community. He highlighted the financial challenges exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, including a sharp increase in cyber insurance premiums and operational strains.

With a significant portion of patients relying on Medicare and Medicaid, Davis stressed the importance of adequate reimbursement from these programs to sustain high-quality care. He also called for support for telehealth services, workforce stability, and innovative solutions to ensure the hospital’s services remain robust and responsive to community needs.

Grande Ronde Hospital has been a trailblazer in telemedicine since 2007, providing essential access to specialty care not available locally. The hospital’s commitment to community investment extends beyond healthcare, with initiatives supporting transportation, education, and housing to improve overall health and well-being.

Davis expressed pride in the hospital’s longstanding commitment to the community and its efforts to provide exceptional care. He emphasized the importance of advocating for policies that support the sustainability and growth of rural health services, ensuring that hospitals like Grande Ronde Hospital can continue to serve their communities effectively.