ROCKLEDGE, Fla. — Health First announced Wednesday that it is eliminating 214 positions, representing about 2% of its workforce.
The health care system said most of the affected positions are administrative, management and clerical support roles.
“No hospital or emergency department is closing,” Health First said in a statement.
Health First said it is continuing to recruit for clinical and other essential positions.
Programs affected
Some clinical positions are being affected by changes to specific programs and services, according to Health First.
The organization said its Hospital at Home program is ending. Current patients will continue receiving care through the program until their care is complete.
Health First also said the Viera location of its Integrated Care Program is closing. Patients at that location will transfer to the Gateway team.
Health First Medical Group is also ending its standalone comprehensive health assessment program. The organization said those assessments will continue through annual wellness visits with patients’ primary care providers.
Patients affected by the changes are being contacted directly about next steps, Health First said.
Support for affected workers
Health First said every affected associate will receive a 60-day paid notice period, with full pay and benefits continuing during that time.
The organization said it is also providing job-search support and helping affected workers explore other positions within Health First.
“We recognize the impact these decisions have on our associates, their families, and their colleagues,” Health First said.
Health First said the decision came after a review of how the organization can continue its mission to improve the health and wellness of the communities it serves.
“Our mission at Health First does not change,” the statement said. “We will continue to provide safe, high-quality care for our patients and invest in the services and facilities this community needs.”
Health First said it has 10,350 associates.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
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