Union Triumph: A Win for Workers and Patients at UP Health System–Marquette

After months of negotiations, approximately 260 USW health care workers at UP Health System–Marquette in Marquette, Mich., ratified their first contract in early January, securing historic wage increases, improved benefits, and enhanced safety protections. This victory is a testament to the power of collective bargaining and the dedication of the workers who fought for better working conditions and patient care.

Peggy Lindeman, a point of care coordinator at UPHS Marquette for 21 years, spearheaded the organizing efforts after noticing a decline in workplace culture, morale, and patient care following the hospital's acquisition by Duke LifePoint in 2014. She began organizing professional and technical workers, ultimately forming a bargaining unit that included LPNs, care aides, lab assistants, payroll, IT, maintenance, office staff, and more. With the support of the USW, Lindeman successfully negotiated a contract that prioritizes the needs and voices of the workers.

The ratified contract includes several key provisions that will significantly improve the lives of the workers and the quality of care they provide. These include:

* A wage scale that recognizes seniority and provides guaranteed wage increases, with average increases of approximately 13.5 percent in the first year and 20 percent over the life of the contract.

* Capped annual health insurance premiums, ensuring that workers' benefits remain affordable.

* Shift differential, providing additional compensation for workers who take on extra responsibilities.

* A seat on the hospital's Safety Committee, giving workers a direct say in workplace safety and patient care quality.

The union's influence on safety protections and workplace culture has the potential to significantly impact the overall productivity and efficiency of the hospital's operations. By addressing the concerns of the workers and providing them with a voice in decision-making processes, the union can help create a more cohesive and motivated workforce. This, in turn, can lead to improved patient care quality, reduced turnover, and better resource allocation.

Moreover, the union's focus on safety protections can help create a safer work environment, reducing the risk of injuries and improving the overall efficiency of the hospital's operations. This can lead to better patient outcomes and a more positive work environment for the employees.

In conclusion, the union victory at UP Health System–Marquette is a win for both the workers and the patients they serve. By securing historic wage increases, improved benefits, and enhanced safety protections, the union has demonstrated its commitment to prioritizing the needs and voices of the workers. This, in turn, can lead to improved patient care quality, reduced turnover, and better resource allocation, ultimately benefiting the entire community.