SEIU UHW & 121RN Members Picket Providence St. Joseph Medical Center

Standing Together for Quality Care

BURBANK (April 24, 2007)– Hundreds of caregivers represented by SEIU UHW & 121RN picketed the 455-bed Providence Saint Joseph Medical Center (PSJMC) on Tuesday, April 24, protesting the hospital's refusal to take seriously the need for patient care improvements.  PSJMC caregivers are trying to achieve the same standards that other area healthcare workers have. Caregivers delivered a clear, spirited message to hospital management and the community: "We will stand up and speak out for our patients."

"All we are asking is that PSJMC's economic and workplace conditions become consistent with the other union hospitals in the Valley," said Julie Richard, RCPII.  "Competitive wages would be a solid statement that we are appreciated as top-notch professionals who contribute substantially to the reputation Providence has in the Valley."  

UHW & 121RN caregivers are working together to achieve a common contract, and achieving a real voice in patient care remains a key issue.  "As frontline caregivers who spend time with patients daily, it's critical that we have a meaningful voice in decisions that affect our patients such as safe staffing ratios," said Everly Canaria, RN.  

Community leaders and their representatives attended the picket to lend their support.  Bob Blumenfield, District Director to Congressman Howard L. Berman, said "Congressman Berman and I supported you when you first organized, we both stand behind your efforts and we stand behind your contract improvements!"

California State Board of Equalization Vice Chair Judy Chu stated after the event, "It's a shame to know caregivers are short-staffed at this hospital at a time when California leaders are talking about expanding healthcare and improving its quality.  That's not good for patient care.  And it's not a good strategy for this hospital if it plans on keeping experienced healthcare workers who want to provide the best quality care for the patients we serve."