Latest local news, weather and high school sports from the Midlands

COLUMBIA (WACH)- Sixty-nine jobs will be lost as part of a cost-cutting measure at Providence Hospitals.

In a statement, hospital officials say the move is necessary  "to continue to align its operations and workforce to meet the health needs of its patients and the community for today and tomorrow."

Hospital spokesperson Lauren Chess says the cost-cutting comes as the result of the overall rising costs of health care.

“As we continue to ensure the hospitals' success into the future to serve the greater Columbia community, we will continue to place our emphasis on ensuring high quality and patient safety and providing the best and most compassionate patient care,” said George Zara, Providence Hospitals President & CEO.