Prime is getting skewered in the press and is now being charged with HIPAA violations. In the meantime, we are fighting it out at Encino. We have filed NLRB charges for changes in terms of the contract without concluding bargaining and failing to provide information. It looks like the board will issue a complaint against Encino on the health insurance information request matter; the other complaint was just filed.

We are still engaged in bargaining with Prime and our remaining issues include healthcare, economics and floating.

We are also dealing with a number of workplace issues – most importantly, floating. The hospital expects Critical Care RNs to float from ICU to ER. RNs have told management that they are not competent to take charge and/or perform the work (depending on how many RNs are there.) One RN was suspended when she refused the assignment and another RN was discharged. We will be developing a strategy for the discharged employee and how better to address this issue.

A big thank you to Encino Chapter President Matt Montoya for stepping up and representing the employee at the investigatory meeting.