Formed over the course of five years beginning in 1997, Samaritan is a not-for-profit regional health system that brings together community hospitals, physician clinics and health insurance plans to serve more than 250,000 residents of Oregon’s Benton, Lincoln and Linn counties. Samaritan is governed by a board, which includes community members, physicians and hospital leaders. As one of the region’s major employers, Samaritan actively participates in efforts to strengthen and grow the local economy, as well as to improve quality of life through high-achieving schools, a strong network of social services, and a commitment to preserving and protecting the environment.