Officials at Lewiston’s St. Joseph Regional Medical Center have announced the reduction of 62 positions at the hospital.
In a news release, Interim CEO Cindy Cowie cited the prolonged period of time it took to complete the recent ownership transaction of the hospital which created growing uncertainty among physicians who chose to leave the area; patients choosing to go elsewhere for care, and minimal investment in services and physician recruitment. As a result, according to both national standards and existing patient census, the current staff at the hospital outnumbered the need.
The majority of affected employees will receive severance pay and are eligible for continued benefit coverage through COBRA. Ten of the affected employees will be eligible for hire by an outsource vendor used by the hospital.
Officials say some services may also be relocated as a result of the changes. (St. Joseph Regional Medical Center)
