Brown University Health to transition some nursing shifts to 12-hour format

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — We have new developments this afternoon from Brown University Health after a viewer reached out to ABC6 regarding new staffing concerns.

The viewer alleges Brown University Health is requiring health care workers to commit to 12-hour shifts, eliminating positions, and requiring some employees to apply for new positions or accept severance packages.

ABC6 reached out to Brown University Health, and received a statement saying in part:

“Beginning in late October, Brown University Health will transition some nursing shifts to a standardized 12-hour format, a change that will affect approximately five percent of our nursing team, primarily per-diem staff. We are deeply grateful for the dedication of our nursing team and fully acknowledge the impact this change may have on some individuals.”

This is the latest development in our coverage of Brown University Health’s cost-cutting efforts as they approach their new fiscal year, including their recent consideration of closing the birthing center at Newport Hospital.

That was an effort that was overturned after overwhelming pushback from the community.

While Brown University Health emphasizes that there aren’t any planned layoffs or offered severances associated with the transition, we’re still waiting to hear back specifically about any eliminated positions.

This is a developing story. We’ll keep you updated on air and online.