Utica, NY (WIBX) - According to a new report, the three hospitals in Oneida County contribute a combined $1-billion dollars a year to the area economy.

Faxton-St. Luke's Healthcare, St. Elizabeth Medical Center and Rome Memorial Hospital have a a total of 53,380 full-time equivalent positions, which fund more than 21-million dollars in state and local taxes.

Hospital employees and those jobs supported indirectly by the hospitals paid $17.7 million dollars in state income taxes iin 2008.

Construction projects at all three hospitals are also having a positive impact, pouring millions of dollars into the economy through construction costs and equipment.

Rome Hospital Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Nicholas Mayhew says as major employers and purchasers of goods and services, the hospitals have a significant impact on the local economy.

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