Florida hospital continues downward spiral, will cut 900 jobs

Jackson Health System in Miami has trimmed its staff by some 600 positions since June 2009, but recently the system posted a loss of $203.8 million for fiscal year (FY) 2009 ended Sept. 30 and has been incurring ongoing losses of about $14 million per month.

The result? Hospital officials have announced a massive restructuring plan that will cut more than 900 jobs: 413 through "efficiencies" and 500 through specific department-based cuts, including staff in revenue cycle, finance, the Jackson health plan and medical-surgical services. Jackson will be able to accommodate the reductions in part because hospital volume is down 4 to 7 percent this year. The system currently has about 12,000 employees.

The hospital anticipates savings of $70 million to $120 million and hopes to partner with employee unions to find an extra $50 million or more in revenue from federal funding. Jackson also is seeking cash advances from the state and county to ensure it doesn't run out of money by May.

To learn more about Jackson's restructuring:
- read the Miami Herald article

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