Hospitals across the country are laying off nonclinical support staff in an effort to offset rising operational costs and brace for potential federal funding cuts — a move healthcare experts, including UW CHWS Director Bianca Frogner, think could jeopardize patient safety, according to a recent Modern Healthcare article.
Salaries and benefits typically make up about half a hospital’s operating expenses so it is the first place executives look to for savings. Contract workers, many of whom fill hospital support jobs, may be the first to go, said Frogner. “I imagine that’s where hospitals are looking to cut before letting go of employed workers. But if facilities aren’t clean and maintained or food isn’t being delivered in a timely manner, those issues could all contribute to the well-being of a patient and how smoothly facilities run.”
These essential workers — including janitorial, food service, laundry, nutrition, and sterile processing — play a vital role in maintaining safe, efficient hospital operations. Without them, experts warn, hospitals may face deeper challenges that threaten patient outcomes. Read more here.