The vote to strike came after months of contract negotiations between nurse and the Heritage Valley Health System headquartered in Sewickley, Pa., went unresolved. During negotiations, the system reportedly proposed changes to healthcare packages that would make insurance coverage for nurses more expensive and potentially exclude coverage for spouses.
According to WTAE, Molly Romigh, RN, union chapter president with Service Employees International Union Healthcare Pennsylvania, said, “As nurses, our number one priority is to be advocates for our patients. That’s why we rejected management’s proposals and are preparing for a one day strike — to take a stand for the staffing we need to provide the best care possible, and affordable healthcare for nurses so we can recruit and retain highly skilled staff and maintain quality jobs in Beaver County.”
Michael Baker, a spokesman for Heritage Valley Health System, told CBS Pittsburgh the contract offer was fair and hospital officials are disappointed. The hospital will not close its doors during the strike.
More articles on hospital human capital and risk:
Nursing shortage strains Central Illinois hospitals
UNMH workers walk out of negotiations
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