Greenfield, Mass.-based Baystate Franklin Medical Center said the costs incurred during a nurses strike last month reached more than $1 million, according to a Boston Business Journal report.
Registered nurses at the medical center went on strike June 26 after negotiations between the hospital and the Massachusetts Nurses Association proved unsuccessful. Roughly 200 union nurses participated in the one-day strike, which was followed by a lockout, according to the report. Both sides have agreed to return to negotiations Friday.
"As we head back to the negotiating table,...we will continue to bargain in good-faith with the MNA as we strive to agree on a fair contract," the hospital said in a statement obtained by Boston Business Journal. "With the financial burden of the strike exceeding $1 million to date, we hope to achieve resolution so that we can return our full attention to our mission."
Baystate Franklin said it contracted for professional temporary nursing staff during the strike, and the hospital was obligated to use staffing services for a minimum of three days. The hospital added striking MNA nurses at BFMC would not be allowed to access the hospital during that time. During the strike, Baystate Franklin's costs also included hiring enhanced security, according to the report.
MNA told the Boston Business Journal the union is optimistic about returning to the bargaining table. However, union spokesman Joe Markman added, "They could have avoided the strike by negotiating and once the strike was imminent they didn't have to lock out the nurses."
More articles on healthcare finance:
CMS releases OPPS proposed rule for 2018: 10 things to know
Louisiana specialty hospital to close less than 4 years after opening
Child's $21M medical bill underscores Medi-Cal challenges