SAN DIEGO — A significant step towards a potential strike has been taken by nurses at Sharp HealthCare, as 97% of union members voted to authorize a walkout. The decision, announced on Friday by officials from the Sharp Professional Nurses Network and Sharp Chula Vista health care professionals, comes amid ongoing negotiations for better working conditions and compensation.
The unions have notified Sharp officials of a 10-day notice before a possible strike. Bargaining sessions are scheduled for Wednesday and Thursday of the upcoming week. The nurses’ demands focus on improved pay, enhanced sick leave policies, and sufficient staffing to ensure patient safety.
Sharp HealthCare responded to the vote, emphasizing its commitment to its nursing staff. In a statement, the organization noted, “While this vote does not mean a strike will occur immediately, it does reflect the significance of the issues being discussed at the bargaining table.” The statement highlighted that nurses currently earn an average of more than $77 per hour, along with benefits, and that Sharp has proposed increases in pay and enhancements to sick leave and retirement benefits.
Union representatives expressed their frustration over the negotiation process, stating that after 14 sessions, their concerns have not been adequately addressed. “Ultimately, any strike would be about protecting our patients, our profession, and our licenses,” they said. “We have been losing nurses to better-paying hospitals.”
The unions highlighted that their goal is to attract and retain qualified nurses to maintain the quality of care that their patients deserve. As the situation unfolds, the implications of a strike could have significant repercussions for patient care at Sharp facilities.
Both sides remain engaged in discussions, with the hope that a resolution can be reached before the deadline for a potential strike. The outcome of these negotiations will be closely watched by the healthcare community and patients alike.