In March 2024, the nurses’ union took decisive action by filing a grievance on behalf of all nurses at Holy Family Hospital in Spokane. This grievance, initiated by RN Haleigh Gibson from the Family Maternity Center, addressed the hospital’s imposition of an 18% availability category on all newly transferred supplemental nurses, regardless of their preference and without proper contractual basis. The union’s investigation uncovered inconsistencies in the hospital’s supplemental choice forms, with varying versions distributed and some nurses not receiving any form at all. This led to delayed and inconsistent premium rate application, often resulting in back payments to nurses, sometimes months after their start dates.
The union pursued this grievance extensively under Article 22 of their agreement. Starting with discussions with the Family Maternity Center manager, the issue was escalated to senior leadership, culminating in a crucial meeting with Susan Scott, the chief hospital executive, the COO, and HR representatives. Throughout these discussions, Holy Family Hospital leadership demonstrated a commitment to finding a resolution, engaging in constructive dialogue that ultimately paved the way for a settlement agreeable to both parties and addressing the union’s concerns.
A YES vote on this settlement offers significant benefits for nurses, solidifying a clear and contractually binding understanding of availability category requirements. Key highlights of the proposed agreement include:
- Introduction of a 16% Availability Category: A new option tailored for supplemental nurses working as educators in nursing schools, providing more flexibility.
- Standardized Selection Form: Upon ratification, a single, uniform selection form will be incorporated into the contract appendix. Hospital management will be obligated to provide this form to all newly hired supplemental nurses within 14 calendar days of their hiring date.
- Mandatory Employer Review: Within 30 days of ratification, Holy Family Hospital will conduct a comprehensive review, issuing the standardized form to every current supplemental nurse. This ensures accurate documentation and coding of their availability elections, promoting system-wide transparency. It is important to note that this review is for verification and documentation purposes and not an opportunity to alter existing availability selections, which remains governed by Article 13.3.
This Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) introduces new contractual language, necessitating a vote from the entire bargaining unit. The union strongly recommends a YES vote, emphasizing that this agreement preserves and strengthens the flexibility for supplemental nurses while preventing the hospital from unilaterally imposing availability choices. This agreement is designed to protect your autonomy in choosing work arrangements that best suit your individual needs and circumstances. Ensure your voice is heard – vote YES to safeguard your rights and enhance your working conditions at Holy Family Hospital Spokane.
For any inquiries, please contact WSNA Nurse Representative Alle Machorro at [email protected].
In Solidarity,
Martha Goodall WSNA Chair
Peggy Smith WSNA Co Chair
Tristan Twohig WSNA Grievance Officer
Teresa Wood WSNA Member at Large Officer
Emily Troyer WSNA Membership Officer
Eric Holden WSNA Secretary/ Treasurer
