Ashland Confirms It Was Not Part of Asante’s Hospital Decision as $4 Million Contract Clause Draws Attention

ASHLAND, Ore. — The City of Ashland recently acknowledged the announced changes at Ashland Community Hospital (ACH) and confirmed that the City is not involved in the decision-making process.

Earlier this week, Asante announced that Ashland Community Hospital will keep the ER open 24/7 but transition overnight and maternity care to Medford by spring 2026 . ACH will transition to a satellite campus of Rogue Regional Medical Center (RRMC). Key outpatient services, such as surgery, lab, and imaging, will continue at the Maple Street campus.

The City and Asante initially entered into an affiliation agreement when the hospital was transferred to Asante. The contract required ACH to operate as a general hospital through 2028 and, if it didn’t, Asante agreed to pay the City $4 million. Tidin