Spine Surgery Canceled as Ashland Community Hospital Faces Major Changes
A patient’s long-awaited spine surgery was abruptly canceled this week at Asante Ashland Community Hospital as the facility prepares for a significant transition, leaving the resident in debilitating pain and facing a renewed search for care.
The cancellation comes after Asante announced last week that Ashland Community Hospital will evolve into a satellite campus of Rogue Regional Medical Center. As part of this restructuring, the hospital’s birthing center and inpatient surgery department are slated to close by spring 2026.
Patient Left in Agony After Procedure Cancellation
Vido Solaja, 65, shared his harrowing experience with NewsWatch 12, detailing how his surgery, scheduled for Wednesday with Dr. Glen O’Sullivan, was unexpectedly revoked. Solaja received a voicemail on Monday from his orthopedics office informing him of “bad news” regarding his procedure.
“When I called, I was informed that the surgery had been canceled and that Ashland Orthopedics was closing due to reductions or changes,” Solaja explained. He described experiencing “level 10 pain” and anticipated the surgery would provide substantial relief. Now, he faces the daunting task of restarting the application process with a new surgeon.
“Hopelessness, absolute hopelessness,” Solaja lamented. “Both me and my wife cried. We have been looking for this operation for months, actually years.” The untreated pain has confined him to his home, severely impacting his quality of life. “I have to go find another surgeon, and at 65 years old every day is precious,” he said. “I don’t have any life anymore. I sit in a chair and I cry at night. I scream at night.”
Limited Response From Hospital Staff
Following the cancellation, Solaja received a voicemail from Asante Community Hospital staff, offering little reassurance. According to Solaja, the staff member stated, “I am so sorry about the cancellations. I’m just finding out about this today myself. All I can do is suggest that you call another orthopedic surgeon group.”
“That’s all I get from the hospital. Nothing else,” Solaja said, expressing his frustration with the lack of support.
Asante Cites Privacy Regulations
An Asante representative responded to NewsWatch 12, stating that “due to federal privacy laws, including HIPAA, we are unable to comment on or confirm any details related to an individual patient.” The representative emphasized the organization’s commitment to patient privacy and directed those with questions to a public FAQ available on their website: https://www.asante.org/faq/.
NewsWatch 12 is currently awaiting confirmation from Dr. O’Sullivan’s office regarding the potential closure of Ashland Orthopedics.
This situation highlights the challenges patients face when healthcare facilities undergo restructuring, and the profound impact such changes can have on individuals relying on critical medical procedures.
