Independent Health eliminates 66 jobs, citing rising drug costs

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) – Independent Health eliminated 66 jobs on Thursday amid what it calls “growing challenges within the healthcare industry.”

The cuts impacted about 4% of its total workforce. The health insurance company is among the largest public sector employers in Western New York.

“The changes will be invisible to members and will not compromise the award-winning customer service they have come to expect,” spokesperson Frank Sava said in a statement. “Independent Health will continue to explore new technologies and strategies to enhance operational efficiency and meet evolving healthcare needs.”

The company is offering outplacement services and severance packages to support those affected.

“Rising costs of prescription and specialty drugs are driving healthcare expenses to unsustainable levels, making it increasingly difficult for individuals and businesses to afford necessary coverage,” the statement added. “In response to this trend, Independent Health conducted a thorough review of its operations, leading to these cuts that will impact approximately 4 percent of the workforce across various departments.”

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