In recent days, our community has felt the impact of difficult staffing reductions at PeaceHealth. I want to speak from the heart about what this moment means for all of us. These decisions are painful because they affect people we value deeply — dedicated caregivers who have served with compassion, skill and unwavering commitment to our Mission.
We are facing forces far beyond our local or even our system control. Federal action to significantly reduce healthcare funding is creating enormous strain on health systems across the country. These realities contribute to the complex and challenging environment in which all healthcare organizations must now operate.
Yet even in the midst of these hardships, I remain profoundly hopeful.
Our Mission — to care for all, especially the most vulnerable — has guided PeaceHealth for more than a century. We are aligning with intention and compassion to preserve our core services, add access and improve services to meet growing community demand, and strengthen our long-term financial stability. This includes strategic investments, such as the Peter Paulsen Pavilion, and key improvements across our main campus to enhance the experience for patients, families and caregivers. These decisions are tough and complex, but they are necessary to ensure we can continue serving the communities that rely on us.
What fills me with hope every day is our people. Our caregivers have shown extraordinary resilience, courage and heart through every challenge. Their dedication forms the foundation that will carry us forward.
To our caregivers, patients and community members: thank you for your compassion, patience and trust. Together, we will continue to navigate challenges and emerge stronger, more unified, and ready to meet the future with renewed purpose and hope.
Chuck
Chuck Prosper
Chief Hospital Executive, Northwest Washington
