Seven people lost their jobs as the result of layoffs at the Pioneer Community Hospital of Patrick, according to Jeanette Filpi, administrator.

Filpi said the changes were due to low volumes and were necessary to show efficiencies to potential buyers.

“Healthcare experiences seasonal volume shifts, with summers most affected by low volumes. This summer has been no different,” Filpi said in an email.

“What’s critical to ensure the sale of the hospital is that we show strong efficiencies in expense controls. These slower summer months are forcing some very hard decisions resulting in the layoff of 7 positions.”

Filpi added that “patient care is never compromised … Great thought and consideration is taken when making these decisions.”

She asked the community for their continued support in using the hospital for healthcare needs.

“This transitional period is hard for all of us, staff as well as the community, however, we have the right team to face these challenges,” Filpi said. “I continue to encourage our team to hold their heads high and with confidence.”

Pioneer filed a Chapter 11 reorganization plan on March 31, 2016, according to previous reports.

“We knew the day that Pioneer filed Chapter 11 that our lives and decisions would not be easy.  We continue to look forward to the future challenges of embracing new ownership and enhancing healthcare in our community,” Filpi said. “These are trying times for our hospital.  Our physicians, leadership team and staff are committed to the successful transition to a new owner.”

An Asset Purchase Agreement was signed and is pending a court hearing, according to a July update on the sale of the hospital.