Leann Johnson, the leader of the Equity and Inclusion Division at Oregon Health Authority, has been fired from her position. The Oregon Health Authority released a statement in the morning announcing that Johnson had left her job and has been replaced by Alfonso Ramirez from the agency’s behavioral health division.
Johnson confirmed to WW that she was indeed terminated. She had been leading the division for over eight years, overseeing 86 employees and a $52 million budget. She reported to OHA director Sejal Hathi, but the reasons for her termination remain unclear as OHA spokesman Robb Cowie declined to provide further details.
In a statement, Hathi emphasized the importance of Johnson’s work in promoting health equity and addressing systemic racism. However, he did not specify any reasons behind her departure. Instead, he stressed that promoting health equity should be a collective effort within the Oregon Health Authority and not solely the responsibility of the Equity and Inclusion Division.
Johnson’s dismissal comes as a surprise to many, as she had been leading the division for a significant amount of time. The Oregon Health Authority has not disclosed any specific reasons for her termination, leaving room for speculation among staff and the public. Despite this setback, the Oregon Health Authority remains committed to advancing health equity and addressing disparities within the state’s health care system.
However, it is important to note that Johnson’s dismissal may have significant implications for ongoing efforts related to equity and inclusion within healthcare systems across Oregon and beyond. It remains unclear how long Ramirez will serve as interim leader of the division or whether there are plans to hire someone else permanently in Johnson’s place.
The news of Johnson’s dismissal has sparked outrage among advocates who were hoping that she would continue to lead efforts related to equity and inclusion within healthcare systems across Oregon.
In conclusion, while it is unclear what led to Leann Johnson’s termination as head of equity and inclusion at Oregon Health Authority, it is clear that her work was vital in promoting health equity and addressing systemic racism within healthcare systems across Oregon.
OHA continues its commitment towards advancing health equity despite this setback with Alfonso Ramirez serving as interim replacement until further notice or permanent appointment is made.
