Nearly 1,500 nurses represented by Health Professionals and Allied Employees Local 5138 voted last week to authorize a strike if a labor deal is not reached this month with Edison, N.J.-based Hackensack Meridian Health.
The nurses are from Jersey Shore University Medical Center in Neptune, N.J., and Southern Ocean Medical Center in Manahawkin, N.J.
"At one time we were a part of a community hospital, caring for our family members, neighbors and friends. As nurses, working in a large healthcare corporation, we are engaging our communities to join our efforts to make sure patient care comes first at Hackensack Meridian facilities," Sally Fessler, RN and President of HPAE Local 5138 at SOCM, said in a union news release.
Nurses are in their first contract negotiations since Hackensack (N.J.) University Health Network and Neptune-based Meridian Health merged last year. The union said nurses see the following as major issues: "the establishment of legally binding staff-to-patient ratios for all units; improvements to the health insurance coverage including lower out of pocket costs and greater access to healthcare providers, and stronger protections for workers' rights."
Hackensack Meridian did not immediately respond to an email request from Becker's Hospital Review seeking comment. The story will be updated if a comment is received.
HPAW said negotiations will continue until July 31, when the nurses' current contract expires.
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