SEATTLE — Swedish Health Services has announced the elimination of nearly 300 positions across its Puget Sound facilities, marking one of the region’s more significant healthcare workforce reductions this year.
According to the announcement, the cuts include both clinical and non-clinical roles and are part of a broader restructuring effort aimed at stabilizing operational costs. Swedish officials stated that the decision comes after months of financial challenges driven by rising labor expenses, operational demands, and ongoing shifts in patient volumes.
While some affected employees may be reassigned to open roles within the organization, many positions are expected to be permanently removed. Swedish emphasized that patient care quality will remain a top priority and that the organization is working to minimize service disruptions.
Healthcare unions and worker advocates have expressed concern over the announcement, noting that staffing reductions could place further strain on remaining employees as hospitals continue to manage seasonal increases in patient flow.
Swedish Health Services operates multiple hospitals and clinics across the Puget Sound area, serving thousands of patients each year. The organization has not yet provided detailed information on which facilities or departments will be most affected.
Further updates are expected as the transition progresses.
Swedish eliminates nearly 300 positions across Puget Sound area https://t.co/UNNjYvLrhC
— KIRO 7 (@KIRO7Seattle) November 19, 2025