US layoffs: Across the United States, a new wave of job cuts is rippling through hospitals and long-term care centres, leaving nurses, aides, and other frontline staff in an increasingly precarious position. From California to Washington, dedicated caregivers are being handed layoff notices, not for lack of effort, but due to the mounting financial burdens facing the country’s healthcare systems, according to a report by Nurse.org.
Nursing staff layoffs
For many, the news has come as a shock. In Everett, Washington, over 100 certified nursing assistants (CNAs) working with Providence Swedish were told their jobs would end on July 11, 2025. That’s nearly a quarter of the CNA workforce at just one site. Across the broader system, which operates in seven states, 600 full-time roles are being eliminated.
Providence points to rising inflation, delays in insurance payments, and looming federal funding cuts as the reason. Still, for those impacted, the numbers offer little comfort. With fewer support staff available, remaining nurses are left stretched thin, forced to absorb additional responsibilities while still providing safe, compassionate care.
What do we know about the job cuts?
At UC San Diego Health, around 230 employees, including nurses, social workers, and aides, were let go in June. Workers say the cuts were abrupt and poorly communicated, sparking protests and deep concern about how patient care will be maintained. While the hospital insists staffing ratios meet legal requirements, many within the facility are struggling to keep pace with the demands.
Cleveland Clinic, known globally for its high standards, also announced 114 job cuts this year, primarily in IT and administrative roles. The organisation has reassured that direct patient care remains a priority, and hiring in clinical areas is ongoing.
Elsewhere, hospitals are following suit:
Kaiser Permanente in California has trimmed 42 RN positions in outpatient departments.
Mayo Clinic in Minnesota has let go of over a dozen nurses.
MemorialCare in California has cut 115 jobs.
PeaceHealth, which serves parts of the Pacific Northwest, announced 251 layoffs.
For many healthcare workers, the impact goes beyond the loss of income. It’s about feeling expendable in a profession built on compassion. Some has turned to unions, legal aid, or new career paths in the wake of the job cuts.