Howard Brown Health Puts Patients and Staff First in Response to a Financial Challenge
Howard Brown Health is being thoughtful and collaborative with our stakeholders as we work to close a $12 million (5.3%) fiscal-year gap in revenue. In all cases where changes may impact union members, we will bargain with the union first and in good faith. We recognize the difficulties these challenges will have on our employees and their families.
No layoffs will occur this calendar year and should they be needed, they will be the subject of bargaining with the union. Any cost saving options we pursue will align with the following goals:
- Uphold commitments to patients as a Federally Qualified Health Center
- Promote effectiveness and efficiency in delivery of care
- Reduce the impact on the workforce as much as possible, demonstrating respect for staff and all of its constituents
Across the country, LGBTQ+ and Ryan White HIV healthcare organizations like Howard Brown Health are navigating through significant changes in pharmacy revenue that now allow pharmaceutical companies to keep a greater share of federally negotiated savings through the 340B program.
Like a similar Federally Qualified Health Center with LGBTQ+ healthcare expertise, Fenway Community Health Center in Boston, Howard Brown is feeling the pressures of a changing pharmacy landscape. In addition, federal COVID-19 relief funding that allowed Howard Brown to mobilize a robust, citywide response has ended. These changes are putting a strain on the agency’s finances, requiring a reduction in operating expenses.
Howard Brown will provide continual updates as more information is available.