The Nursing Shortage
Hospitals have been intentionally understaffing nurses for decades. Low nurse-to-patient ratios drive the high nurse burnout rate and the shortage of nurses. Low nurse-to-patient ratios also cause preventable patient deaths.
The Hospital’s Lobbying
According to a public testimony record, an OHSU Hillsboro Medical Center (aka Tuality Healthcare) executive lobbied against Oregon house bill 2697, which passed and set specific nurse-to-patient ratios.
According to another public testimony record, at least one nurse employed by OHSU Hillsboro Medical Center lobbied in support of Oregon house bill 2697, alleging that a manager at OHSU Hillsboro Medical Center stated that “nobody really cares” about understaffing.
Tiffany is not affiliated with the New York Times or KATU.