As per reports, workers at Washington Hospital have voted to authorize a strike on Monday (03 February). The vote was conducted to urge University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) to invest in quality care and jobs for the local community.
• The decision follows UPMC’s acquisition of Washington Hospital in June 2024, with promises of a USD 300 million investment, and to invest in its employees and improve benefits offerings.
• However, a statement by Service Employees International Union (SEIU) Healthcare Pennsylvania stated that UPMC instead proposed a wide range of cuts, including removing cost caps on worker’s health insurance and increasing out-of-pocket costs for one of their health insurance plans.
• Two negotiation sessions are scheduled for Tuesday (04 February) and Thursday (06 February). An agreement is expected, but if workers do authorize a strike, they would provide management with a 10-day notice to ensure patient safety and care.
