According to the Morning Sentinel, the departures coincide with the health system's change in ownership to Prime Healthcare Foundation, which acquired the Lewiston-based system in February. A spokesperson for Prime Healthcare says the turnover represents less than 20% of its workforce and that the health system has hired 400 employees since the acquisition.

Also read: Central Maine Healthcare patients report ongoing issues after electronic records switch However, current employees say key positions have not yet been filled and that the departures have created staffing shortages that are jeopardizing patient safety. Hospitals reportedly experiencing staffing issues include Central Maine Medical Center in Lewiston, Bridgton Hospital, Rumford Hospital, and the health system's outpatient practices.