Alberta Health Services Nursing Collective Agreement: What You Need to Know
The Alberta Health Services (AHS) has recently reached a new collective agreement with the United Nurses of Alberta (UNA) union. This agreement is good news for all nurses working in the healthcare system of Alberta province. In this article, we will discuss the highlights of this collective agreement and what it means for nurses.
Background Information
UNA represents more than 30,000 registered nurses, registered psychiatric nurses, and allied healthcare professionals in Alberta. AHS is the largest employer of healthcare professionals in the province. Negotiations for a new collective agreement started last year as the previous agreement had expired in March 2020.
Highlights of the Agreement
The new collective agreement includes several important provisions that will benefit nurses and ensure better patient care. Some of these are:
1. Wage increases: Nurses will receive a 1.95% wage increase for each year of the four-year agreement, starting from April 1, 2020. This increase is retroactive, meaning that nurses will receive back pay for the past year.
2. Job security: The agreement includes provisions to protect nurses` jobs during reorganizations or layoffs. Nurses will have the right to apply for vacant positions before external candidates.
3. Workload management: The agreement includes provisions for a workload assessment process that will help to identify and address workload issues. Nurses will have the right to refuse work if their workload exceeds acceptable levels.
4. Improved benefits: The agreement includes improvements to healthcare benefits, including new paramedical coverage for registered nurses and registered psychiatric nurses.
5. Professional development: The agreement includes funding for professional development, including continuing education and training.
What it means for Nurses
The new collective agreement is good news for nurses working in Alberta. With the wage increase, nurses will receive a fair wage for their work and dedication to patients. The job security provisions will offer peace of mind to nurses during uncertain times. The workload assessment process will help to address staffing issues and ensure that nurses can provide high-quality care to patients.
The improved benefits will help nurses to take care of their health and the health of their families. The funding for professional development will help nurses to stay up-to-date with the latest advances in their field.
Conclusion
The new collective agreement between AHS and UNA is a significant milestone for nurses in Alberta. It offers important provisions that will ensure a fair and safe workplace for nurses and better patient care. The government of Alberta has shown a commitment to recognizing the value of nurses and their contribution to the healthcare system. This collective agreement is a step in the right direction and a positive sign for the nursing profession.