Queen's Health Systems Realigns Workforce to Meet Emerging Healthcare Needs

Queen's Health Systems is making strategic adjustments to its workforce to ensure operations are sustainable and align with the evolving healthcare landscape.

While Queen's did not reveal specific positions or how many roles have been impacted, the organization emphasized that the move is necessary for better efficiency and long-term delivery of services.

Operating in a Changed Health Care Landscape

"In light of the growing needs of communities we serve, emerging technological trends in health, and nation-wide pressures impacting healthcare sustainability, Queen's has scrutinized its operation with an emphasis on further improvement of effectiveness and efficiency," explained Jason Chang, Queen's president and chief executive officer, by email.

He added, “This evaluation helped us determine what is essential to uphold the legacy of our Founders, Queen Emma and King Kamehameha IV, in providing high-quality healthcare to improve the well-being of Hawaii’s people for the long term.”

Workforce and Operational Adjustments

The areas for restructuring that were identified involve services where, over time, healthcare demands either migrated elsewhere, or can and should be better and more appropriately performed elsewhere. "While the changes will have the ultimate benefit of strengthening our organization, many involve changing and eliminating certain positions," Chang explained.

While Queen's has not confirmed specific details, sources confirm that non-union positions are being impacted, and pre-surgery centers-those facilities that help patients get ready for operations-may be closing.

Recent Labor Developments at Queen's

This workforce restructuring follows a recent strike by registered nurses at the Queen's Punchbowl and West Oahu campuses, a signal of ongoing challenges in the healthcare sector.