GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — Mercy Health and Saint Joseph Mercy Health System say they will be offering furloughs to an estimated 10% (2,500 people) of their workforce and redirecting the duties of another 10% to respond to COVID-19.
"This action will enable the health systems to focus resources on the functions directly related to essential COVID-19 patient care needs, while protecting people and helping to prevent the spread of the virus." Their statement read.
Leadership at the Vice President level and above are taking pay cuts up to 25% and staff will be redirected based on their qualifications and skills. The hospital calls this a "necessary response" to the issues caused by COVID-19. they estimate a 50%-60% loss in income due to cancellation of non-essential medical services and administrative functions.
"Our priority is the care and safety of our colleagues and the people we serve, and our colleagues have never worked harder than they are working today," said Rob Casalou, president and CEO, Trinity Health Michigan. "These are difficult steps that are intended to make sure we are able to provide the best possible care for our patients and communities through this unprecedented time."
The hospitals say they are working to expand care for both COVID-19 patients and typical patients and will be adjusting plans as changes to the current healthcare crisis allow. for more information, you can visit their website here.
