Ann Kettering Sincox, MNA
517.349.5640, ext. 242
517.256.2312 (cell), ann.sincox@minurses.org

November 20, 2009

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

West Shore Medical Center RNs gain new contract

Manistee – The Registered Nurses at West Shore Medical Center (WSMC) in Manistee, represented by the Michigan Nurses Association (MNA) have negotiated a new three-year contract. The contract represents the interests of approximately 70 registered nurses.

The RNs will see a 2% increase in wages for each year of the term of the contract with no change in health insurance premiums or benefits. Vacation and sick leave time will be transitioned over the next two years into a Paid Time Off (PTO) system, with completion scheduled for 2011.

Improvements were made to holiday scheduling and several minor adjustments were made to the hospital’s internal structure. In addition, a clinical advancement system will be created which rewards the RNs for gaining new skills.

“Because of our collaborative bargaining approach used in negotiating this contract,” said Florence Baerren, MNA Labor Representative, “we were able to meet the requirements of both WSMC and the RNs in a satisfactory manner. We are continuing to use this approach by holding quarterly meetings to discuss issues and ideas that will be of benefit to improving patient care and reaching the needs of the community.”

MNA has represented the Registered Nurse at WSMC since 1998.

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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 the United American Nurses and an affiliate of the AFL-CIO.