UVM Health Network Announces Major Service Cuts Amid Financial Struggles in Vermont
- The University of Vermont Health Network (UVMHN) announced significant cuts to health services that could change how patients receive care in Vermont.
- Bob Ortmyer, president of Porter Medical Center, shared that while Porter will not face direct cuts, local patients may experience indirect effects, especially concerning transfers and administrative services.
- UVMHN's executives blame these cuts on the Green Mountain Care Board's recent decisions.
The University of Vermont Health Network (UVMHN) announced significant cuts to health services that could change how patients receive care in Vermont. These cuts will impact several facilities and departments within the network.
Planned reductions include:
- Closure of the transplant department at UVM Medical Center.
- Shutting down the inpatient psychiatric unit at Central Vermont Medical Center.
- Transfer of dialysis programs in Newport, Rutland, and St. Albans to other providers.
- Closure of two clinics in the Mad River Valley.
- Reduction of inpatient numbers at UVM Medical Center from about 450 to around 400.
Bob Ortmyer, president of Porter Medical Center, shared that while Porter will not face direct cuts, local patients may experience indirect effects, especially concerning transfers and administrative services.
UVMHN’s executives blame these cuts on the Green Mountain Care Board’s recent decisions. The board limits how much revenue hospitals can generate and what they can charge for services. Sunny Eappen, the CEO of UVMHN, described the situation as challenging, stating the organization must act according to the board’s orders.
The proposed changes could impact care across Vermont, from Burlington to Middlebury. UVMHN plans to implement cuts to non-clinical expenses totaling $38 million. These include delaying equipment maintenance and halting improvements to patient access. Overall, about 200 staff members may be affected, with some contracts not renewed, while others will be reassigned.
Owen Foster, chair of the Green Mountain Care Board, emphasized the need to contain costs and ensure quality care. He stated that UVMHN did not meet benchmarks for pricing, quality, and accessibility in recent years. He criticized UVMHN for not seeking other cost-saving measures besides cutting services.
The nursing federation in Vermont expressed disappointment over the cuts, blaming UVMHN for mismanagement. Mike Fisher, Vermont’s chief healthcare advocate, echoed these concerns, urging the hospital to collaborate to address the financial crisis.
The changes are set to take effect over the coming months. UVMHN did not provide a specific timeline, as they need to follow through on the legal appeals related to the board’s decisions.