Survey shows more than one-third of Ohio hospitals plan staff cuts

COLUMBUS (AP) — In a survey, more than a third of Ohio hospitals say they plan to lay off workers within the next six months because of the poor economy.

The survey released Monday by the Ohio Hospital Association also shows the cuts will hit hardest at hospitals serving rural areas.

Hospitals say the new layoffs could affect nursing, radiology, physical therapy and outreach programs such as dental clinics.

The survey results were accompanied by a fresh warning from the hospital association that a new fee proposed for Ohio hospitals would lead to additional job cuts and reductions in services.

Gov. Ted Strickland has said the fee, included in his two-year budget plan, is needed to help shore up the state’s Medicaid program that insures 1.8 million Ohioans.