SANTA MARIA - Marian Regional Medical Center in Santa Maria has announced layoffs involving Certified Nursing Assistants (CNA's).
CNA's are on the front lines of patient care in the hospital responsible for feeding, bathing, cleaning and exercising patients around the clock as well as changing linens and bed pans.
Sources tell Central Coast News some of the 18 CNA's being laid off have been working at the hospital for more than 20 years with a few close to retirement.
Marian Regional Medical Center issued the following statement about the layoffs:
"Like many health care facilities throughout the nation, Marian Regional Medical Center (MRMC) is moving towards the future health care delivery model with an all Registered Nurse (RN) staff supported by Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) that have monitor observer and unit clerk capabilities.
The new hospital's nursing units were designed to assure that a registered nurse is immediately adjacent to the bedside of patients, which increases efficiency and provides for the highest level of care for patients.
MRMC remains committed to serving the current and future health care needs of the community. Quality, compassionate and safe patient care is and always will be our top priority.
Last week, nursing assistants, who do not also function as monitor observers and unit clerks, received a notice describing the change in the health care delivery model.
We value and respect our employees and we are working closely and collaboratively with the affected employees to identify employment opportunities within the organization."
Sources tell Central Coast News those who received layoff notices last week were given 30 days notice.
