BOISE - A Boise area hospital is laying off employees.

Jennifer Krajnik, St. Alphonsus hospital spokesperson, says 66 employees have been laid off. The hospital now has laid off more than 100 employees in the past year. In March, about 40 employees were let go.

Less than 2 percent of the Saint Alphonsus workforce will lose their jobs, the hospital said in a press release.

Employees impacted by layoffs will receive competitive separation packages based on years of service and employment status. In addition, Saint Alphonsus will be providing outplacement support, and assistance with finding employment.

"Reducing our workforce, along with other performance improvement initiatives, represents a proactive commitment to the community and our constituents to maintain a strong, efficient health care system even in tough economic times," said Rick O'Connell, Saint Alphonsus interim chief operating officer.

Mercy Medical Center announced in December that 70 employees were let go.