CINCINNATI – The Registered Nurses Association (RNA) at UC Medical Center, a local unit of the Ohio Nurses Association (ONA) and the American Federation of Teachers (AFT), overwhelmingly ratified a three-year agreement last evening with the Medical Center.

The agreement includes hard-fought language for salary increases and a commitment to nationally recognized nurse to patient ratios from the Medical Center, both of which will enhance much needed nurse retention and recruitment efforts.

“Through our union, we have always insisted that the hospital follow staffing practices that are best for nurses, patients, and our entire community,” said Shannan Holston, RNA member and Cardiac nurse. “The staffing ratios we gained in this contract are a bold new step in that direction. Our patients and families deserve to know they can count on UC for the best possible care, and I am proud of the work I and my fellow union nurses do every day.”

“I’m proud of our members’ commitment to this contract campaign. With over 400 nurse vacancies, something has to change, and we will continue to hold the Medical Center accountable to our agreement to make that change a reality. This agreement is not only a win for our nurses, but for the Medical Center, our patients and our community,” stated Michelle Thoman, RNA President.

The contract includes wage increases with an average increase of 8.8% in the first year of the contract and some nurses receiving salary increases up to 25% over the course of 3 years. The agreement contractually requires the Medical Center to tie incentives to nurse-to-patient ratios rewarding nurses who work extra shifts to achieve those ratios.

The new agreement is retroactive to July 1, 2021 and expires June 30, 2024.

RNA consists of 1700 registered nurses.