SRMC Reducing Workforce
Sonora, CA — Sonora Regional Medical Center saw a decline in patients during the first half of the year, so the hospital is forced to cut its labor costs.
A letter was sent out to staff members this morning from hospital CEO Jeff Eller. “We have implemented a 4% labor reduction that focused first on eliminating excessive overtime, premium labor, and reduced hours in key areas,” writes Eller. “Additionally, this plan did include the laying off of 13 employees.”
The number of inpatients at SRMC is down by approximately nine percent for the first half of the year. SRMC’s reductions will primarily impact support, administration and ancillary departments.
In an interview this morning, Eller confirmed that 94 employees will receive less pay in order to save 11 additional positions. In essence, the impacted employees pay period was cut from 80 hours down to 72 hours.
Eller says they searched for ways that would have the least impact on patient quality and safety.
SRMC made headlines earlier this month when the former Andy’s space was purchased on Mono Way for future expansion. Eller says the hospital has the difficult task of balancing the current economic realities, with the long-term goals of expanding critical medical services in the community.
Eller says that Sonora Regional Medical currently employs around 1,200 people.
