RNs at Virginia Regional Medical Center Call for Charter Change; Involvement of Bedside Nurses
Virginia, MN (Oct. 25, 2011) – VRMC RNs voted overwhelmingly today to support the City of Virginia’s proposed charter change that would alter the terms of what is considered a sale of the city-owned hospital. “We believe a partnership agreement may be the best way to ensure a sustainable future for our hospital,” said Dave Perron, RN Chair of the VRMC nurse’s union bargaining unit, represented by Minnesota Nurses Association.
However, the nurses at VRMC have a number of concerns about the process the city has utilized so far in its initial negations with potential partners. Of chief concern for the VRMC RNs is the composition of the committee currently negotiating with a potential partner. Committee members include several with no health care experience, and noticeably absent is a representative from the nursing profession who currently practices at the bedside. Nurses have repeatedly asked for representation on the committee, but surprisingly, have been told their knowledge and experience caring for patients were not welcome.
VRMC nurses believe a charter change would improve VRMC’s negotiating position as it moves forward in possible partnership talks with outside entities. Any such agreement would require approval by a two thirds vote of both the hospital commission and city council.
“We are mandated patient advocates, but we can’t advocate for our patients when we are being kept out of discussions,” stated Peggy Anderson, a Short-Stay Surgery registered nurse with 26 years experience and MNA Co-Chair. “Nurses vow to continue advocating for their patients and will continue to demand to be included in any process that affects patient care at VRMC,” said Dave Perron.
Founded in 1905, the Minnesota Nurses Association represents more than 20,000 nurses in Minnesota, Wisconsin and Iowa. MNA is also a founding member of National Nurses United, which represents more than 170,000 RNs across the United States.