The Lund Report

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JOZEF MICIC/SHUTTERSTOCK

High-profile Oregon health-mergers review law survives hospitals’ challenge

Federal judge dismisses lawsuit that sought to knock out state office intended to protect access and affordability. Hospitals may appeal.

May 17, 2024
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Barney Speight played a major role in reforms to Oregon's health care system intended to lower costs and improve access. | COURTESY PHOTO

In memoriam: Barney Speight

Former Oregon Gov. John Kitzhaber and other health policy leaders say Speight had a hand in key reforms that expanded access and coverage over his decades-long career

May 16, 2024

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Gov. Tina Kotek speaks to reporters at a press event in April 2023 in Salem. | JAKE THOMAS/THE LUND REPORT

New records detail Aimee Kotek Wilson’s involvement in Oregon Health Authority affairs

Governor’s spouse was part of ‘team’ working on behavioral health, emails show. Supporters fear governor’s handling of the situation could spark backlash.

May 16, 2024
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ANTONIO GUILLEM/SHUTTERSTOCK

Oregon’s health care cost-growth controls hit a crucial stage

Critics disagree on whether the state’s proposed final rules for insurers and hospitals are too weak or will have unintended effects

May 16, 2024
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Rock formations at Bandon Beach in Southern Oregon. | LISA MCKELLY/PIXABAY

Coastal Oregon health center fired medical director for blowing whistle, suit claims

In the latest sign of turmoil at the federally funded nonprofit, Dr. Henry Holmes seeks $750,000, saying he was fired for flagging ‘unlawful practices’ to state and federal officials

May 14, 2024
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This seizure on April 21, 2023 of 100,000 fentanyl pills, 3 kilograms of heroin and 1 kilogram of fentanyl in the La Grande area typifies street drugs in Oregon. | OREGON STATE POLICE

Fatal fentanyl overdoses skyrocketed in Multnomah County, report says

Oregon’s largest county details human toll from synthetic opioid and shows which communities are being affected disproportionately

May 14, 2024
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This Oregon Medical Group clinic in Eugene is one of several primary care businesses bought in Oregon by UnitedHealth's Optum Health Division.

Optum will let doctors who quit Oregon Medical Group treat local patients, lawmakers say

Company’s use of non-compete agreements had sparked controversy in Oregon amid a larger debate

May 10, 2024
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The maker of Invisalign (pictured) has dominated the market for clear plastic alternatives to braces, but now is targeting a Lake Oswego orthodontist for allegedly trading on its success. | SHUTTERSTOCK

Lake Oswego orthodontist sued by Invisalign maker for more than $20 million

Suit targeting Bill Dischinger cites his role as an ‘opinion leader’ who's paid by a competing company while helping it grow sales

May 9, 2024
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Flanked by former Oregon Health Authority Director Bruce Goldberg and former Gov. John Kitzhaber, Rep. Ben Bowman on Wednesday addressed members of the House Committee on Behavioral Health and Health Care. | JAKE THOMAS/THE LUND REPORT

Bowman launches reboot of bill to curb corporate medicine

High profile bill died unexpectedly, but the Tigard lawmaker and newly chosen House leader hopes to succeed with a new attempt next year

May 9, 2024
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Dan Norris, an attorney with a progressive neurological condition, took OHSU to court over a common source of frustration for patients: cancelled appointments. | COURTESY OF DAN NORRIS

OHSU doctor’s cancellations lead to unusual lawsuit, settlement

‘A hero for our time:’ Oregon Health & Science University canceled on Dan Norris — twice — after he'd made cross-country trips just to see his neurologist. An elder abuse expert, he sued.

May 7, 2024