OHSU in the news

New York to become latest state to allow aid in dying. What is it?

USA Today January 28, 2026
USA Today reports that New York may become the 13th U.S. state to allow aid in dying, following Oregon’s first-in-the-nation law approved in 1994. Charles Blanke, M.D., says, “I am helping patients who often don’t have any other option.”

OHSU names CEO for new Phil and Penny Knight-backed cancer group

Portland Business Journal January 27, 2026
OHSU selects Joel Helmke, M.H.A., to serve as chief executive officer of the Knight Cancer Group. Helmke says, “I am thrilled to be walking into an environment where there is a tradition of excellence, a nationally recognized brand, incredible resources, and where people want to do very ambitious things.”

OHSU Knight Cancer Group taps Fox Chase chief as CEO

Becker's Hospital Review January 27, 2026
OHSU selects Joel Helmke, M.H.A., to serve as chief executive officer of the Knight Cancer Group. Helmke says, “I am thrilled to be walking into an environment where there is a tradition of excellence, a nationally recognized brand, incredible resources, and where people want to do very ambitious things.”

Project seeks to develop retinal screening for Alzheimer’s

EurekAlert January 27, 2026
A new federally funded OHSU research initiative to make the human eye a window revealing the earliest signals of Alzheimer’s disease. Lei Wang, Ph.D., says, “The retina is a neural sensory extension of the brain. If we can detect a buildup of amyloid in the retina, it may be possible to flag early-stage Alzheimer’s among patients who aren’t yet experiencing any symptoms”

OHSU president plans to expand footprint in Southern Oregon

Jefferson Public Radio January 22, 2026
In conversations with Shereef Elnahal, M.D., M.B.A., Jefferson Public Radio’s “Jefferson Exchange” - highlights of the investments needed to support and expand the health care workforce in Southern Oregon.
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