As health systems grapple with financial pressures and shifting operational priorities, some are making workforce reductions that extend to physicians.
At least three health systems have laid off physicians in 2026, with cuts affecting clinical staff, administrative leaders and other employees. The reductions come as organizations reassess staffing levels, eliminate positions and, in some cases, scale back services.
Here are three health systems that have laid off physicians in 2026:
1. Baptist Health (Little Rock, Ark.): The April reduction impacted approximately 150 employees, including 10 physicians. The reductions came amid ongoing financial losses. The decision follows a March announcement from the system that it would discontinue labor and delivery and obstetrics services at the campus, affecting 40 employees.
2. Lane Regional Medical Center (Zachary, La.):In August, Lane Regional Medical Center in Zachary, La., eliminated 14 positions across the organization, including two physicians, two directors, 10 staff.
3. Montrose Regional Health (Montrose, Colo.), The cuts, effective Oct. 12, include 34 employees who were laid off and 43 vacant positions that will not be filled, according to a statement shared with Becker’s. Affected roles include 12 leadership positions, three physicians and three advanced practice providers. Of the 77 positions, 36 were in direct patient care.
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