Montefiore nurses challenge AI-related layoffs

Montefiore hospital in the Bronx laid off 12 utilization review nurses after replacing their work with AI-powered software, according to the New York State Nurses Association. Marilyn Shuler, who has worked in the role for 39 years, said the decision was disrespectful and disheartening after a career spent reviewing patient charts and communicating with insurers over coverage.

The layoffs followed a nurses strike across several New York City hospitals in January 2026, after which new union contracts included safeguards against AI. Union executive committee member Shaiju Kalathil said the job cuts violated that agreement and raised concerns for practitioners and patients focused on healthcare quality.

Shuler said the department’s workflow changed after nurses returned to work in February, without explanation. After the union contacted management, all 12 nurses in the department received 45-day layoff notices on 28 May. She said AI should support clinical experts rather than replace them, especially in work involving medication changes and discharge planning.

Montefiore did not comment specifically on the layoffs, but said its technology changes are part of a nonclinical paperwork program. Joe Solmonese, the hospital’s senior vice-president for government relations and strategic communications, said the union’s claims were inaccurate and misleading and that Montefiore continues investing in technology to improve patient care and outcomes.