Mass General Brigham strengthened its financial results, despite industry uncertainty

Despite the uncertainty and worry roiling Massachusetts hospitals, the state’s largest health system saw its finances improve last year, running a small operating surplus and enjoying a windfall from investment income.

Mass General Brigham on Friday reported an operating gain of $59.2 million for the fiscal year ending in September, a margin of 0.3 percent, compared with a gain of $45.7 million in the same period a year earlier. These figures, along with a significant gain on investments, contributed to a net margin of $2.4 billion. Last year, the system brought in $2 billion in net winnings.

The results come after MGB made the largest layoff in its history in February, aiming to cut more than $240 million in payroll and benefits costs in the face of what executives said were financial pressures. Although they should save money each year, the reductions cost the system $53 million last year.