Pickets scheduled at health care facilities across Pierce County. Here’s why
AI-generated summary reviewed by our newsroom.
- Nearly 300 SEIU-represented clinic workers plan pickets at seven CHC sites.
- Union cites stalled talks over wages, benefits after more than 15 sessions.
- Workers warn benefit cuts and turnover threaten care for vulnerable Pierce patients.
Workers plan informational pickets at seven area Community Health Care centers in response to stalled contract talks.
Nearly 300 clinic workers represented by SEIU Healthcare 1199NW plan the action from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m Tuesday (Jan. 27) at seven CHC facilities in Tacoma, Spanaway, Lakewood and Puyallup.
“After more than 15 bargaining sessions, the two sides remain far apart on key issues, including wages, benefits, and discipline,” the union stated in a news release. “Workers report that Community Health Care administrators have eroded medical and retirement benefits since the last contract.”
The workers contend that the current wage proposal from CHC management is “far below the $25 hourly starting wage that is standard for healthcare workers in the area and necessary to keep up with the cost of living in Tacoma and reduce staff turnover,” according to the release.
“Healthcare workers also report an increase in disciplinary actions against union members and retaliation by managers toward union delegates,” the release added.
Representatives with the health system would not offer comment Monday on the planned action when contacted by The News Tribune.
The bargaining unit includes licensed practical nurses, coding compliance specialists, community health workers, dental assistants, medical assistants, pharmacy technicians, health billing workers, dental and medical receptionists and other job classes.
Yolanda Kennedy-Kambarami is a patient-services representative for CHC in Puyallup and a member of the union bargaining team.
In a statement, Kennedy-Kambarami noted that patients include “people who are especially vulnerable due to immigration status, income level, and other factors that contribute to poor health outcomes. These clinics are a safety net for our neighbors and community members. Retaining trusted staff who can meet patients’ complex and cultural needs is essential right now.”
SEIU Healthcare 1199NW represents more than 37,000 nurses and healthcare workers throughout hospitals, clinics, mental health, skilled home health and hospice programs in Washington state and Montana.
Community Health Care is a private, nonprofit organization. Its clinic network dates back to 1969, with two volunteer clinics established to expand access to healthcare for low-income and underinsured Pierce County residents.
