Photo: Getty Images
The New York State Nurses Association (NYSNA) is advocating for a fair contract for its members at Oneida Health Hospital. The nurses are calling for clear staffing standards, improved wages, and benefits. The previous contract expired on December 31, and hospital management initially threatened to halt negotiations. However, after nurses marched to the CEO's office and involved a federal mediator, talks resumed.
Nurses emphasize the importance of enforceable staffing standards to comply with New York state law. They argue that better wages and benefits are crucial for retaining experienced nurses and ensuring quality patient care. According to NYSNA President Nancy Hagans, "Management needs to stop playing games with our time because patient care is too important."
The association recently filed an unfair labor charge against Oneida Health for attempting to silence union nurses. A spokesperson for Oneida Health stated that the hospital values its nurses and is committed to reaching a fair agreement. The NYSNA represents over 42,000 members across New York and is affiliated with National Nurses United, the largest union for registered nurses in the United States.