More than 2,800 nurses and staff at Kenmore Mercy Hospital, Mercy Hospital of Buffalo, and Sisters of Charity Hospital, St. Joseph Campus have approved new four-year contracts with Catholic Health. The agreements are valued at an additional $100 million.
The new contracts will maintain current pension and health benefits, keep safe staffing ratios in place, and improve pay for employees. Wages will increase by at least 12 percent over the contract period. There will also be higher pay for evening and night shifts, increased bonuses for extra hours worked, and other incentives. Health insurance coverage and a prescription plan will remain at their current levels.
Negotiations began in March between the three hospitals and CWA Locals 1133 and 1168. The talks were led by President & CEO Joyce Markiewicz and Chief Nursing Officer Catherine Mohr. The discussions focused on long-term sustainability, recruitment, retention, career advancement opportunities, and ensuring competitive wages.
“Catholic Health is committed to our caregivers, patients, and the long-term sustainability of healthcare in our community,” said Joyce Markiewicz, President & CEO of Catholic Health. “These contracts are competitive, sustainable, and focused on supporting the people who make Catholic Health strong.”
