UC Health streamlines Operations, Eliminates 50 Positions & Adjusts Mobile Stroke Services
Cincinnati-based UC Health is restructuring its services, resulting in the elimination of approximately 50 positions – representing less than 1% of its total workforce – as the system focuses on long-term financial sustainability and resource allocation. The changes were announced in a Sept. 4 statement to Becker’s Hospital Review.The workforce reduction is part of a broader strategic realignment for the academic health system. UC Health previously announced plans to close the Daniel Drake Center for Post-Acute Care by September 30th and divest its affiliated Bridgeway Pointe assisted living facility.This closure is expected to impact approximately 474 employees, as detailed in a WARN notice filed on May 29th.”This decision, while challenging, is a strategic step forward ensuring we can grow with purpose, expand access to high-quality care and meet the changing needs of our community,” stated Robert Wiehe, Senior Vice President and COO of UC Health.
In addition to the workforce adjustments, UC Health will discontinue operations of its Mobile Stroke Unit on September 19th. The decision is attributed to low patient volumes and substantial operating costs. Importantly, all employees currently working on the Mobile Stroke Unit will remain employed within the larger UC Health mobile care team, which will continue to provide specialized transport services, including operation of the region’s only mobile ICU.
Brett Kissela, MD, Director of the UC Gardner neuroscience Institute and Chief of Research Services at UC Health, emphasized the shift will allow for resource optimization. “This plan allows us to redirect resources to where they are needed moast for our patients,expanding our ability to deliver lifesaving care to more people,” he said in a Sept. 5 news release. “We will continue advancing stroke research and pioneering care through our internationally recognized UC Extensive Stroke Center.”
UC Health stated affected employees are being offered severance packages and are eligible to apply for open positions within the health system.
