The closures were made to “maintain safe caregiver-to-patient ratios,” Benefits said in a statement provided to Becker’s.
The system did not specify how many beds have been temporarily closed, but said it plans to reopen the beds “as soon as possible” by recruiting and onboarding new employees.
“As everyone is well aware, there is a severe national nursing shortage, which impacts not only Benefis Health System but hospitals across Montana and across the country,” the health system said in the statement.
Benefis’ hospital in Great Falls has 220 inpatient beds, according to its website. The health system also recently acquired Missouri River Medical Center in Fort Benton, Mont.
At the Becker's 11th Annual IT + Revenue Cycle Conference: The Future of AI & Digital Health, taking place September 14–17 in Chicago, healthcare executives and digital leaders from across the country will come together to explore how AI, interoperability, cybersecurity, and revenue cycle innovation are transforming care delivery, strengthening financial performance, and driving the next era of digital health. Apply for complimentary registration now.