The contract between HCA and nurses at Mission Hospital in Asheville has expired, but negotiations are ongoing to avoid a strike. The nurses union, the largest in the South, has been unsatisfied with the terms of the contract, citing issues with nurse and patient safety, understaffing, and low wages. Despite some progress in bargaining sessions, key issues such as safe staffing and workplace violence remain unresolved. If the nurses do decide to strike, a vote will be conducted, and the hospital will be given 10 days notice. HCA is making preparations to keep the hospital running in case of a strike, but hopes to reach a fair agreement with the nurses. The next bargaining session is scheduled for July 16, and both parties remain committed to finding a resolution that benefits both the nurses and the hospital. The outcome of these negotiations could have significant implications for the quality of patient care in the long run.
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Photo credit carolinapublicpress.org
Union of Mission Hospital nurses having discussions; strike potential
