Oregon Attorney General Dan Rayfield visited Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) to discuss pressing health policy issues with medical leaders and staff. This meeting comes amid significant federal policy changes affecting health care accessibility across the United States. The focus of the discussion included critical topics such as research funding, reproductive health, and gender-affirming care.
During his visit, Rayfield emphasized the importance of patient autonomy in health care decisions. “Patients and families should be the ones making decisions about their own health care,” he stated, reflecting concerns about potential restrictions that may arise from federal policies. His remarks highlight a commitment to preserving the rights of individuals to access necessary services without undue interference.
Rayfield toured key facilities within OHSU, including the Vista Pavilion, which specializes in cancer treatment and research, and the Center for Women’s Health. At the Center, he interacted with staff who provide gender-affirming care, reinforcing the importance of comprehensive health services for all patients.
Joining Rayfield was Maine Attorney General Aaron Frey, who participated in discussions ahead of a multistate town hall focused on health care issues. This collaborative effort among state attorneys general underscores a unified approach to address health care challenges across multiple jurisdictions.
Dr. Nathan R. Selden, Dean of OHSU’s School of Medicine, expressed gratitude for the support from Rayfield and the Oregon Department of Justice. “We were grateful to host Attorney General Rayfield to give him a closer look at the critical work happening across OHSU’s core missions,” he remarked. Dr. Selden highlighted the necessity of continued support for research, education, and patient access to care.
Rayfield’s visit serves as a significant affirmation of Oregon’s dedication to safeguarding access to health care, particularly concerning gender-affirming care and abortion services. The state is currently leading a multistate lawsuit challenging the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services over proposed federal policies that could jeopardize funding for essential health services. Oregon’s legal efforts aim to ensure hospitals, health centers, and universities can secure necessary resources without federal restrictions, allowing health care providers to deliver care with confidence.
As the landscape of health policy evolves, Oregon stands firm in its resolve to protect health care access for all residents, emphasizing the vital role of state leadership in advocating for the rights and needs of patients.
