Good Samaritan Hospital layoffs possible

Some clerical workers and nurses in administrative jobs at Good Samaritan Hospital Medical Center in West Islip learned Monday they may face layoffs as a result of a shift from inpatient to outpatient care.

Hospital spokeswoman Christine Hendriks said it was still unclear how many workers will lose their jobs, but she said it will be a "very, very small percentage" of the hospital's 4,300 employees.

Hendriks said "every attempt is being made" to reassign employees within Good Samaritan or to other jobs within Catholic Health System facilities.

"While we can't quote a specific number [of layoffs], because actions are still ongoing that may allow individuals to be placed through the system or be retrained for new positions, we can tell you that we are working closely with each respected colleague," she said.

Hendriks said the move comes as a result of "historic changes" in health care brought about in part by the Affordable Care Act.

Hospitals are being encouraged through reimbursements to shift from more expensive inpatient care to ambulatory care. That means administrative functions within the hospital can be streamlined, she said.

Hendriks declined to comment on whether employees at other Catholic Health System facilities will face similar layoffs or reassignments.