#United States #Boston #Patient Care #Mass General Brigham #Brigham Nurses

Upcoming Mobilization of Brigham Nurses

In a bold move ahead of a planned strike on November 12, nurses from Brigham and Women's Hospital, along with their supporters, are set to leaflet outside two major businesses linked to the board members of Mass General Brigham (MGB). Slated for November 9, this campaign aims to urge MGB to negotiate sincerely and reach an equitable contract that guarantees safe patient care.

This mobilization comes as MGB faces criticism for making significant cuts in patient care, despite its status as the most profitable hospital system in Massachusetts, boasting an astounding $2.3 billion in profits and $35 billion in total assets.

Rationale Behind the Leafleting

The primary aim of this action is to highlight the board's complicity in decisions that precipitate the strike. As the healthcare workers prepare for a potentially protracted strike, they call attention to the conflicts of interest existing among MGB’s board members. Given that MGB has previously initiated two strikes and locked out nurses for several days—earning a hefty cost estimated at $100 million—many are questioning the financial priorities of the organization.

MGB has spent millions on temporary nurses and lavish salaries for executives, raising eyebrows about its commitment to patient care. For instance, CEO Anne Klibanksi received $9.2 million last year, while the top 14 executives collectively earned $35.9 million. In stark contrast, patient care for vulnerable demographics is being trimmed, which has spurred the nursing community into action.

Care Under Threat

Recent reports indicate alarming reductions in various care programs:

• - The specialized PANS/PANDAS program catering to pediatric patients is being phased out.
• - Key programs for home health care and veterans are being cut, which many argue breaches a duty to serve those in need.

This downsizing of care prompts nurses to sound the alarm, emphasizing the necessity for MGB to focus on the well-being of its patients rather than profit margins.

Targeted Leafletting Locations

Supporters will gather at two locations known to be tied to influential board members:
1. THL Partners
- Date & Time: November 6, 10:30 a.m.
- Address: 100 Federal Street, Boston.
Here, co-CEO Scott Sperling has significant sway as a board chair at MGB.

2. The 'Quin House
- Date & Time: November 8, 11 a.m.
- Address: 217 Commonwealth Avenue, Boston.
This venue is co-owned by board member Paul B. Edgerley, known for its exclusivity among Boston's elite.

The overarching message to be conveyed at these leafletting sites is twofold: MGB's board must prioritize patient welfare, and the upcoming negotiations on November 9 should culminate in a fair agreement that prevents the impending strike.

Key Issues in Negotiation

As discussions loom, several critical demands have surfaced:

• - Limits on Temporary Nurses: Ensuring continuity and quality in patient care.
• - Float Differential: This would help maintain consistency in patient assignments, crucial for care continuity.
• - Health Insurance: Fair access to care for nurses who diligently serve their patients.
• - Wage Scales: Competitive salaries aimed at recruiting and retaining skilled nursing professionals.

Established in 1903, the Massachusetts Nurses Association remains a powerful advocate for high-quality nursing practice and the welfare of healthcare professionals. The nurses of Brigham and Women’s Hospital are prepared to stand firm as they advocate for a contract that not only meets their needs but also safeguards the interests of patients across the community.