A major transition is underway at Lehigh Regional Medical Center as its ownership shifts hands, leading to the loss of nearly 300 jobs, according to recent communications with state officials.
Prime Healthcare Services has announced the sale of Lehigh Regional Medical Center to HCA Healthcare, an acquisition expected to finalize by January 18. This upcoming change has initiated significant workforce adjustments, with 294 employees notified of impending job eliminations.
In a letter complying with the federal Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification Act, Prime Healthcare indicated that HCA, the new owner, will “commit to making offers to retain substantially all” employees. However, the precise number who will continue in their roles remains undetermined, as does the nature of their compensation packages under the new management.
Questions regarding severance pay or other benefits for those not retained went unanswered, leaving affected employees in uncertainty. The 53-bed hospital, founded in 1965, offers various specialty care services, including emergency services, cardiology, and orthopedics.
HCA Healthcare, a substantial entity in the health sector with 186 hospitals and over 2,400 care sites across 20 states and the UK, will soon incorporate Lehigh Regional Medical Center into its wide network, which includes 13 facilities along the Gulf Coast.
The workforce reduction at Lehigh Regional Medical Center highlights the complexities and uncertainties that can accompany healthcare facility acquisitions. The true impact on the employees and the community will become clearer as the transition progresses.
Source: BusinessObserverFL
