FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

December 4, 2020

Contact: Anne Ransone, ONA, 614-975-0485, aransone@ohnurses.org

 

The East Liverpool Nurses Association wants to fairly negotiate at the bargaining table, and for as long as it takes, to reach a satisfactory decision for all parties involved.

November 18 was the last day of negotiations between the ELCH and the East Liverpool Nurses Association. The nurses were hoping to reach an agreement that addressed their concerns. Unfortunately, because of a number of unfair labor practices committed by the employer, this did not happen. This resulted in a three-day strike. The parties are meeting again on December 8th and hopefully CEO Keith Richardson was sincere when he said, “We hope that we can sit down with them soon so we can finish negotiations.” ONA looks forward to meeting with East Liverpool Community Hospital and are hopeful we can reach an agreement that is good for the patients, good for the community, good for the hospital, and good for the nurses.

When Prime Healthcare Foundation acquired East Liverpool City Hospital (ELCH) they told the media it would be “our privilege to collaborate with the physicians, nurses and employees at these facilities to ensure the best care for the patients they serve.” Unfortunately, administration negotiations relating to a new contract for ELCH nurses have not been in line with productive collaboration, practitioner empowering approach, or a community-minded focus.

Prime often states that they are “saving hospitals, saving jobs, saving lives”.  We are very hopeful that they will live up to their words.

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About ONA: Formed in 1904, the Ohio Nurses Association is a powerful network of registered nurses who are committed to advancing nursing through education, political action and workplace advocacy. ONA is the leading voice of the approximately 190,000 professional registered nurses in Ohio. To become a member of the Ohio Nurses Association, visit www.ohnurses.org