In Berlin, the support staff union representing approximately 500 members at Central Vermont Medical Center (CVMC) is in the midst of finalising their first contract with management. With only two full-day negotiation sessions remaining, key disagreements persist, particularly over wage increases and safe staffing ratios. A public rally is planned to garner community support, as explained by union member Ashley Copeland, who emphasised the impact on care quality due to burnout and staffing issues.
CVMC’s spokesperson conveyed the hospital’s commitment to reaching a suitable agreement for both staff and the community. Currently, the union is advocating for a base pay of $23 per hour, while management proposes $20, aligning with other unions in the University of Vermont Health Network. Jay Ericson, a CVMC representative, noted that their wage proposal would average more than 22% increases over a three-year period, contrasting the union’s request for a staggering 46% rise within a year and a half.
Licenced nursing assistant Ashley Copeland highlighted that many staff members are struggling to meet basic living expenses. She pointed out how inadequate staffing exacerbates the situation, with many workers overwhelmed by excessive patient loads. The union suggests capping the number of patients per licensed nursing assistant at 7 to 9, a stark decrease from the current 14 to 18.
Additionally, the closure of the inpatient psychiatric unit has intensified the pressure on existing resources, with an uptick of patients needing alternative care placements. Despite this, Ericson indicated there hasn’t been a notable rise in emergency department wait times since the closure. He acknowledged the need for maintaining appropriate staff-to-patient ratios and mentioned that the union’s input on improving management of these ratios is welcomed.
Both parties made progress on a key issue surrounding workplace violence, agreeing to establish paid leave for support staff assaulted on duty. Ashley Copeland recounted instances of frequent assaults, underscoring the mental strain such experiences impose on staff. Although the union proposed three paid days off post-assault, the hospital agreed to provide paid leave for the remainder of the day of the incident.
As contract negotiations reach their conclusion, support staff and hospital management will convene for two all-day meetings next week and invite the community to rally in support at City Hall Park in Barre this Saturday, starting at noon.
The support staff at Central Vermont Medical Center are negotiating their first contract with the hospital, focusing on wage increases and staffing ratios. A public rally is planned to seek community support. Union representatives highlight concerns over burnout, financial struggles, and workplace violence, while the hospital aims for an agreement that is sustainable for both staff and patients. The final negotiation sessions are set to take place next week.
In summary, the support staff at Central Vermont Medical Center are in urgent negotiations for their first contract, contending with key issues of wage increases and staffing ratios. Despite CVMC’s commitment to supporting their staff, disagreements persist over pay levels and safe patient assignments. The proposed community rally underscores the urgency of these issues, particularly as staff face challenges related to burnout and workplace violence. The impending final negotiation sessions will determine if a resolution can be reached that meets the needs of both employees and management.
Original Source: www.vermontpublic.org
