Over 13,500 Nurses Approve Groundbreaking Four-Year Contract with CommonSpirit/Dignity Health

Registered nurses at CommonSpirit/Dignity Health facilities in California and Nevada have approved a significant four-year contract, as reported by the California Nurses Association/National Nurses Organizing Committee (CNA/NNOC). The decision was reached after a strong vote, concluding on June 5.

Phil Penn, a registered nurse in the ICU at St. Mary Medical Center in Long Beach, emphasized that this achievement allows nurses to address broader community issues, such as immigration reform and protecting healthcare services from cuts.

### Key Features of the Agreement
– Patient care and workplace protections are fully maintained.
– Wage increases for all nurses, with additional adjustments in specific regions.
– Preservation of pension and retiree health benefits.
– No concessions or losses for the nurses.

This contract is set to last from June 30, 2025, until June 30, 2029. Kathy Dennis, a nurse at Mercy General Hospital in Sacramento, noted that these changes will help attract new talent and retain experienced staff, which is vital for patient safety.

Sandy Reding, an operating room nurse at Bakersfield Memorial Hospital and a CNA/NNOC president, stated that with the contract secured, their focus can shift back to advocating for patients and communities.

CNA/NNOC represents over 13,500 registered nurses across 27 facilities in California and Nevada. The organization is the largest and fastest-growing union for registered nurses in the U.S., boasting around 100,000 members.

Labor unions have played a crucial role in the healthcare industry over the years. Historically, significant nurses’ strikes in the late 1980s and early 1990s brought national attention to labor issues, highlighting the importance of safe staffing levels and proper healthcare funding. Today, nurses continue to advocate for not just their rights, but also for community health and wellbeing.

### Current Context
Recent statistics show that 80% of nurses report feeling burned out, and many consider leaving the profession. This contract looks to address some of these challenges, aiming to improve working conditions and nurse retention rates. Public support for nurses has been strong, with social media trends reflecting solidarity, especially during healthcare crises.

This contract and the robust support behind it underscore the ongoing fight for better working conditions and quality patient care. As the healthcare landscape continues to evolve, the commitment of nurses remains a critical factor in ensuring a healthy future for communities.

For more details on the California Nurses Association/National Nurses United, visit their official site for comprehensive resources and updates.



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