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COLUMBIA -- Declining patient numbers have at least one mid-Missouri hospital examining its staffing options.

KRCG News obtained a statement sent out Friday by Boone Hospital president Dan Rothery to hospital staff and physicians.

In it Rothery says Boone has seen declines in patients for the past six months. He says managers are still in the process of analyzing staffing patterns and that decisions will be announced by the end of October. Earlier this year, the hospital announced a round of layoffs and the closure of its in-patient psychiatric care wing.

The hospital has a series of forums scheduled with employees starting next week to brief them on where things stand.

Here is the text of the letter sent out to Boone staff and physicians Friday:

To: Hospital Employees, Medical Staff

From: Dan Rothery, President

Re: Declining census

Date: October 17, 2008

Dear Employees and Physicians:

Reflecting the decline in the overall economy, Boone Hospital Center has continued to experience declines in inpatient census, as we have for the past six months. As you know, our census drives the number of people we need to care for our patients and operate the hospital. The Boone Hospital Center leadership team is working to adjust staffing in relation to the decline in census.It is important for us to continue to address and adjust to this reality.

Our analysis is not yet complete and we do not have specific information for you. Decisions will be announced by the end of October. You will hear many rumors during this time, but please know that the leadership team remains committed to preserving Boone Hospital Center's patient safety, high quality of care, employee and patient satisfaction. The decisions we make during these difficult economic times will not impact Boone's ability to continue to serve our region as we have since 1921.

I look forward to seeing you in our employee forums beginning Tuesday, October 21. You will learn more about our current situation, and receive an overview on our plans to ensure the continued success of the hospital. In the meantime, I know you will continue to maintain your focus on the patients in your care.