800 registered nurses are represented in the new deal, which was approved by 95 percent of those who voted.
Staff retention and recruitment, and safe working conditions were top of mind issues for nurses at Munson.
Labor and delivery nurse Angie Sheffer was part of the union’s bargaining committee.
“Since the pandemic we’ve dropped significantly with workers which made it difficult for staff that remained. Higher patient ratios, just heavier assignments which affect the quality of care.”
The deal with the Michigan Nurses Association includes wage increases [of nearly 16%] over three years. The most experienced nurses will make over $50 an hour by the third year of the contract in addition to retention bonuses.
Healthcare staffing shortages are not unique to northern Michigan. A recent bill passed by the state includes $75 million to address a healthcare worker shortage across the state.