Western Massachusetts hospital network cuts jobs

The Western Massachusetts healthcare network that runs Baystate Medical Center in Springfield says a $37 million projected shortfall is forcing it to cut 55 jobs and eliminate 120 vacant positions. Baystate Health will also enact a hiring freeze for non-clinical positions and wait until the economy improves before moving ahead with financing for a major expansion. Baystate representatives said the network has been hit hard by the economic downturn, reductions in Medicaid reimbursements, and falling numbers of patients.