READING — The parent company of Reading Hospital has announced the layoffs of 210 employees as part of a cost-saving plan that will also eliminate another 181 jobs through attrition.

The plan also will change the employee retirement package from a defined-benefit to a 401(k) plan.

Hospital officials cited changes in the national health care system, including cuts in Medicare and Medicaid reimbursements.

Chief operating officer Therese Sucher also said fewer patients are getting elective surgeries due to layoffs or reduced medical benefits.

Sucher said “easily about 65 percent” of the reductions are clerical staff.