rich 1.0 Action Network https://actionnetwork.org <link href='https://actionnetwork.org/css/style-embed-v3.css' rel='stylesheet' type='text/css' /><script src='https://actionnetwork.org/widgets/v6/letter/we-stand-with-uvmmc-healthcare-workers?format=js&source=widget'></script><div id='can-letter-area-we-stand-with-uvmmc-healthcare-workers' style='width: 100%'><!-- this div is the target for our HTML insertion --></div> AFT Vermont https://actionnetwork.org/groups/united-professions-of-vermont https://can2-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/letters/photos/000/459/199/normal/Logos_together._.png Last week UVMMC management presented a “last, best, and final” to support staff and tech unions which would worsen current safe staffing processes and job security protections at the hospital. The bargaining team decided unanimously to proceed to a strike authorization vote. Thousands of healthcare workers cast ballots and 82% voted to strike to protect patient care! This would be the largest healthcare strike in Vermont history. This morning, union leadership held a press conference to announce the results. Here's VFNHP president Nicole DiVita's speaking today: The proposed contract take backs that would be devastating to our membership, and have major implications for everyone who receives healthcare in Vermont. UVM Health, in its aggressive acquisition of regional hospitals, has become a monopoly power in our state. For years, executives have used the exorbitant high prices we pay to give themselves millions in bonuses. Now, they are crying poverty and cutting hundreds of patient-facing roles. Where is the accountability? Each hour UVM Health CEO Stephen Leffler makes 33 times what an entry-level LNA makes – and yet this hospital is asking our members to foot the bill on their irresponsibility. Since April, healthcare workers and patients have shared testimonies, marched, met with legislators and the mayor, delivered petitions and picketed. Thousands have shown up to make their priorities clear, but still, the hospital has not moved. This is the moment to take a stand for quality patient. Send a letter to Dr. Leffler and other upper management today, saying you stand with healthcare workers and demanding a fair contract. https://actionnetwork.org/letters/we-stand-with-uvmmc-healthcare-workers