University of Vermont Health Network announces 199 job cuts

University of Vermont Health Network announces 199 job cuts

The University of Vermont Health Network is cutting an additional 199 jobs by late October as senior leadership continues to work to reduce costs associated with providing care.

A letter was sent to UVM Health employees on Tuesday from CEO Stephen Leffler that explained the cuts. NBC5 obtained a copy of the letter, in which Leffler said that the jobs being cut will include "leaders and staff across each of our health care partners."

Leffler went on to explain that the job cuts were made as UVM Health continues to grapple with a major budget shortfall. He also acknowledged that patients utilizing the health network are struggling to pay high bills so they can access care.

"We have to act now to address these issues," Leffler said in the letter. "The health of the people we serve, and the existence of our health system, are at stake."

Employees affected by the latest round of cuts have been offered severance packages, and unions have been informed about affected members, Leffler said.

Fifty-five positions that are being cut will be restructured into new roles. Many of the displaced clinical staff will have an opportunity to ...