FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 25, 2024
Contract is the first for the three unions
Columbus, Ohio – The 150 surgical technologists at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center (OSUWMC), represented by ONA and AFT, have ratified a first contract that provides vital changes for surgical technologists to be able to provide safe, exceptional care and retain and recruit skilled technologists.
“I am very proud of what we have done and continue to do for our surgical technologists at OSU,” said Barb Kerr, Perioperative Surgical Technologist Educator and local unit chair. “Our first contract is just the beginning, and we will continue to advocate for changes to make our work lives better.”
The three unions, Ohio Surgical Technologists Association (OSUWMC Main Hospital), OSC Surgical Technologists (OSUWMC Ambulatory Surgical Centers), and OSU East Scrubs (Ohio State East Hospital), began contract negotiations in February 2024 and members of each union voted to ratify their contract in July.
The two-year agreement addresses key issues needed to provide safe, sustainable care at all facilities.
Contract Highlights
- Provide a meaningful voice that’s equal to other members of the surgical team.
- Securing important working conditions related to the scheduling process to promote a good work-life balance.
- Wage adjustments that fix decades of inequities in compensation and will retain and recruit skilled surgical technologists.
“Our union held the Medical Center to a contractual commitment to recruit and retain surgical technologists, “said Brittney Widmayer, Certified Surgical Technologist at OSUWMC’s Eye and Ear Institute. “Our contract respects our profession and the expertise of our members by guaranteeing we have an equal voice on the surgical team to advocate for the best patient outcomes.”
The new two-year contract is effective July 15, 2024, to June 30, 2026.
“Through their commitment and unification, the surgical technologists made it very clear to OSUWMC executives that they are demanding better working conditions that are well overdue,” said Rick Lucas, BSN, RN, CCRN, ONA President and Executive Director. “This first contract agreement sets the precedence that members will always fight for the safety of their patients and themselves.”
The 150 surgical technologists unionized in September 2023 to have union support to negotiate for improved staffing and equitable wages.
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About ONA
Formed in 1904, the Ohio Nurses Association is a powerful network of nurses and health professionals. Our mission is to unite and empower nurses and health professionals, championing their rights, promoting professional practice, and advocating for quality care for all patients in Ohio, while fostering a strong and cohesive professional union community. To learn more or to become a member of the Ohio Nurses Association, visit www.ohnurses.org.
Contact: Michelle Day
Director of Communications & Technology
mday@ohnurses.org