Two unions representing caregivers and service workers at University of Rochester (N.Y.) Medical Center's Strong Memorial Hospital and River Campus began a 17-hour strike Dec. 13.
The unions, 1199SEIU United Healthcare Workers East and SEIU Local 200 United, issued a 10-day notice for a strike Nov. 30, according to a Dec. 11 press release.
Union members authorized a strike in November amid negotiations for a new labor contract with the hospital, which have been underway since late August. In the release, the unions contend that during negotiations, URMC failed to bargain in good faith and that caregivers and service workers seek a "living wage and quality comprehensive benefits to help retain and recruit more workers at [the] largest private-sector employer in state and to uplift some workers out of poverty."
In a statement shared with Becker's, the University of Rochester said it "has been negotiating in good faith since late August with union representatives from 1199SEIU and 200United SEIU for a multi-year contract renewal that is competitive, fair and equitable."
The statement also said the university recognizes and respects the unions' right to engage in a strike and has contingency plans in place to ensure patient care continues without disruption.
1199SEIU represents about 1,400 employees at the University of Rochester Medical Center who work in roles such as patient care technicians, environmental services workers, food service workers and patient diet clerks, patient unit secretaries, transport assistants, materials processing workers, stock keepers and couriers/drivers. 200United SEIU represents about 500 employees at the university's River Campus and the Eastman School of Music, serving in roles such as environmental services and food service workers, stack attendants and truck drivers.
Union members' contract expired Oct. 31.