By Chris Bavender
Changes in the healthcare industry will lead to staff reductions across St.Vincent Health’s 22-hospital system. The changes will take place before the end of this month.
“We are looking at all business transformation activities and cost saving options – not only staff reductions – but also administrative costs, supply costs, programs, etc.,” said Johnny Smith, spokesperson for St.Vincent Health. “This is a very deliberate process to ensure we take the necessary steps to ensure long term effectiveness for our health ministry.”
Smith said it is imperative St.Vincent takes proactive steps to ensure the organization remains viable and able to continue to serve communities across Indiana.
The number of employed and contracted associates the changes will affect is still unknown, according to Smith, including whether nurses and physicians will be among those cut.
“We are still in a discernment process and taking a very comprehensive viewpoint at all the costs,” he said. “We have a very deliberate timeline with milestones on that timeline that we have to meet, so no number has been identified yet because this is a very deliberate process.”
The decision isn’t being made lightly, Smith added.
“We understand what makes a great hospital system is its people, and it’s our associates who truly care for patients and take steps to ensure quality of life,” he said.
“As we value each individual’s commitment and dedication to the Mission of St.Vincent Health, our thoughts and prayers are with all associates and their families during this time,” said Vincent C. Caponi, CEO of St.Vincent Health. “We understand that other health systems are facing similar challenges and making difficult decisions as well. To sustain our health system’s service to patients and families across the state, we must re-imagine the way we provide holistic care – body, mind, and spirit.”
Smith emphasized the changes will not affect patient care.
“Any type of reductions we make will be in the best interest of the communities we serve,” Smith said. “We are looking at what is needed and making certain we don’t decrease the quality of care for patients and family because that is who we are here to serve.”