Aetna Reorganization May Force More Layoffs

HARTFORD, Conn. - Aetna Life & Casualty Co. said it will lay off employees as part of an anticipated restructuring that could involve every business line.

The company would not say how many jobs will be eliminated, but analysts said about 4,000 of Aetna's 42,300 employees could be laid off, based on the sizes of two staff reductions since 1990. Aetna spokesman Eric Cormier said the company has yet to decide on the scope of the restructuring or when to start making any changes. The company is expected to release its earnings Feb. 9.