University of Kansas Health System and Ardent vowed to maintain as many of the hospital’s 1,600 jobs as possible and, after a review of hospital operations, is “realigning staffing to best meet the needs of patients,” officials said a statement to Becker’s Hospital Review. Ardent spokesperson Tyra Palmer said affected positions include administrative, Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth (Kan.) Health, and system jobs, according to The Topeka Capital-Journal. None are bedside nursing staff.
Officials said 86 new full-time jobs — primarily in nursing and clinical care — have also been approved, and hiring for these jobs will start immediately.
“These are difficult decisions, which we understand impact employees and their families,” said Mark Gregson, Ardent chief transition officer.
“As the University of Kansas Health System and Ardent look toward the future at St. Francis, we appreciate and acknowledge the history of care, and the commitment of those who have so faithfully served this community. While we know change is difficult, we know change is necessary to make St. Francis the choice in quality healthcare providers in the area.”
Officials said employees affected by the job cuts have the opportunity to apply for the newly approved positions at St. Francis, or for jobs within Ardent or University of Kansas Health.
They added the hospital’s parent, Broomfield, Colo.-based SCL Health, is offering the 60 affected employees severance, outplacement support assistance and resources during the transition.
University of Kansas Health System and Ardent announced plans to acquire 378-bed St. Francis in May. The hospital will rebrand as The University of Kansas Health System St. Francis Campus following the takeover, which is expected to be complete next month.
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