Overlake Medical Center and Clinics, a nonprofit health system based in Bellevue, Wash., will cut 55 jobs as part of broader changes aimed at ensuring long-term financial stability.
The layoffs will take effect Nov. 23 and span all areas of the hospital and clinics, according to a WARN notice filed with the state.
According to a Sept. 22 news release, Overlake also will not be filling certain open positions and end urgent care services at its Lake Hills location at the end of October, as the health system said it is exploring other service uses for the space. Lake Hills Primary Care services will remain available for patients, and Downtown Bellevue Urgent Care will expand its hours in November.
“The decision to reduce staff is difficult, but it is necessary to respond to the challenging reality the American healthcare system is facing,” Jon Duarte, Overlake president and CEO, said in the release. “We made this decision after very careful analysis. These changes are essential to safeguard Overlake’s long-term financial stability. By strengthening our organizational foundation, we will be better positioned to continue meeting the evolving health care needs of the communities we serve.”
Affected staff will be provided a support package, including an extended notice period, elective severance pay, and career transition services and support.
Overlake, which includes a 349-bed hospital and a network of primary, urgent and specialty care clinics, employs more than 3,700 people, according to its website. It is affiliated with Tacoma, Wash.-based MultiCare Health System.
