UVM Health Network Announces Service Cuts

The University of Vermont Health Network announced significant staff and service cuts, including the closure of dialysis units and transplant departments, and a reduction in overnight patient beds, following budget constraints imposed by the Green Mountain Care Board (GMCB). Up to 200 jobs may be lost, half of which are temporary travel positions, as the network aims to manage a $122 million reduction in revenue. GMCB, the state's health care regulator, did not approve these specific cuts and is seeking clarification from the network. The board had penalized the UVM Medical Center for exceeding revenue caps, and the network argues that these reductions will negatively impact patient access and affordability. Despite the GMCB’s assertion that the cuts are unnecessary, UVM Health Network maintains they are essential due to decreased commercial payer rates and increased patient numbers. The network is appealing the budget constraints, a process expected to take several months.