One of Hermiston’s largest employers will get even larger as Good Shepherd Medical Center will assume ownership of Gifford Medical on July 1.

Gifford Medical, which is located across from Good Shepherd on West Elm Avenue, will retain its name and current services. Dr. Joseph Gifford will continue to see patients, but on a part-time basis. The other three doctors at the facility will also continue to work there.

Gifford has been a doctor since 1974, and has been practicing in Hermiston since 1990. When he started the practice, he was the only doctor there.

Lisa Gifford, Dr. Gifford’s wife and the company’s spokesperson, said the hospital plans to retain all the company’s employees.

“It happened pretty fast,” said Gifford. “We decided to sell because we’re wanting to retire.”

Gifford said she hopes the change will be good for the practice and for patients.

“We hope it will eventually grow it and allow it to expand hours,” she said.

A representative for Good Shepherd could not be reached. Gifford Medical currently provides urgent care as well as private practice.