Nurses at Buffalo (Minn.) Hospital plan to hold an informational picket Aug. 2 over contract issues with Minneapolis-based Allina Health.
The picket will highlight Allina Health's "failure to bargain a fair contract," according to the Minnesota Nurses Association, which represents the workers.
"Nurses are asking Allina Health to negotiate a fair contract that works for both parties," Debra Kosciolek, RN, said in a prepared statement. "Allina is attempting to impose a new scheduling system that would harm the hospital's ability to recruit and retain nurses. It would interfere with nurses' ability to plan and use their scheduled time off. The proposed compensation for this is significantly below minimum wage and nearly half of what is paid in Monticello, [Minn.], and metro Allina hospitals."
The MNA also said Allina seeks to move nurses from their health insurance plans to "inferior" corporate plans.
Allina expressed disappointment in the union's decision to organize a picket instead of concentrating on future negotiations.
"Their press release misrepresents our latest offer and is not helping us all get to a fair contract. Our bargaining team is coming to the table on Thursday ready to negotiate a fair settlement. We hope the union does the same," Allina said in an emailed statement to Becker's.
More articles on human capital and risk:
Nomad Health nurse staffing tool takes cue from online dating sites
Mayo Clinic nurses in Albert Lea, Austin reach labor deal
NewYork-Presbyterian sees backlash over ties to furniture company