According to a report from the Worcester Telegram & Gazette, Vanguard Health Systems' facility St. Vincent Hospital has laid off 60 workers as part of a plan to eliminate 117 positions.

With the reductions, which took effect immediately, the hospital is employing 1,800, the same number it had two years ago, officials said.

The hospital said the cuts were in response to fewer diagnostic procedures, laboratory work and elective surgeries.

“We’re seeing a slowdown and responded to it,” said spokesman Dennis L. Irish. “It’s unfortunate and regrettable.”

The cuts were spread among union and nonunion positions and include managers and bedside nurses, Irish said. Those affected by the cuts were notified Thursday, and severance packages were offered. The 117 positions eliminated include a number of vacant and unfilled positions.