The negotiations come about two weeks after about 1,800 nurses, represented by the Vermont Federation of Nurses and Health Professionals Local 5221, ended a 48-hour walkout over wages and working conditions.
Nurses could strike again if an agreement is not reached with the hospital. The hospital spent $3 million to $4 million on the last strike and could potentially spend about the same in the event of another strike, according to the report.
“Let’s hope that we’re not having to go down that road again. Nobody wants a strike. Everyone just wants a fair contract that’s going to speak to the needs of the nurses,” Laurie Aunchman, RN, president of the VFNHP, told NBC5.
Laurie Gunn of UVM Medical Center told the TV station: “We’re thinking a lot about how we help attract and retain nurses as we go forward, [not] just around wages but around what it’s like to work here as a nurse. We are listening and are hopeful that we can get to a resolution that feels respectful and fair for everyone.”
UVM Medical Center nurses have been without a new contract since July 9.
More articles on human capital and risk:
Rhode Island hospital workers begin 3-day strike
Illinois hospital workers lobby for $15 minimum wage, union rights
Hospitals and unions: 9 conflicts, agreements
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