News & Events
DCHS RNs negotiate contract to improve their work environment
06.01.2011
Contact:
Ann Sincox
517.256.2312
ann.sincox@minurses.org
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Iron Mountain – The registered nurses of the Dickinson County Health System RN Staff Council, represented by the Michigan Nurses Association (MNA), have successfully negotiated a new two-year contract. The new contract allows the nurses to consistently have a voice in the providing of quality patient care in the Dickinson County Health System.
As part of the negotiated benefits, quality improvements such as cross-training, an Acuity Task Force (to help determine appropriate staffing based on the needs of the current patient population), a Professional Nurse Practice Committee, and the ability to report and review practice situations will be initiated and/or enhanced.
“There was a renewed commitment between the Hospital and the nurses to use both new and existing strategies to their fullest potential to ensure continuous quality improvement and safe staffing,” said David Perlove, MNA Labor Representative. “To assure communication, there is now contract language that prohibits any form of hostility or retaliation against RNs who report practice concerns through appropriate channels.”
Changes were made to the Educational Leave provision so that RNs may now reduce their work hours rather than cease working. Additionally, paid-off time has been agreed to that gives union leadership additional time to prepare for future contract negotiations and to attend MNA annual House of Delegate meetings. “It is beneficial to both our careers and the patients we serve to keep current on matters that affect our practice,” said Pam Maule, RN, President, DCHS RN Staff Council.
Wage increases were also negotiated in conjunction with maintaining the Hospital’s Defined Benefit Pension Program for all RNs who are vested in the Plan.
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The Michigan Nurses Association is the largest, most effective union for RNs in Michigan. As the voice of all registered nurses in Michigan, MNA advocates for nurses and their patients at the State Capitol, in the community, and at the bargaining table. MNA is a constituent member of National Nurses United and an affiliate of the AFL-CIO.
