Better Benefits
On average, unionized workers in the hospital industry have superior benefits than non-union workers. Through SEIU, we have a say in the kind of benefits – including pension, health care and career training/development – we receive on the job.
More importantly, our union-negotiated benefits are guaranteed in writing! They can’t be cut or changed without our approval – and that’s never been more important than now, at a time when many hospitals are trying to cut costs by reducing health insurance coverage, retirement, and paid leave benefits.
Here are some of the benefits many unionized hospital workers currently enjoy:
Affordable health insurance.
All health care employees should have access to affordable, quality health care themselves. Around the country, unionized hospital employees and nurses are negotiating not only what our health insurance covers, but how much it will cost. Many SEIU members pay nothing for our full family health coverage, and we’ve negotiated benefits for part-timers and retirees as well.
Livable pensions.
Many hospitals and other employers are cutting back on the retirement benefits we’re offered. Without a union, employees have little say in what happens to their pensions. But SEIU members are bargaining to protect and improve our pensions so that — after a lifetime of caring — we can retire with an income we can afford to live on.
More paid time off.
In today’s fast-paced world, hospital employees and nurses need to be sure we can take time off when we need it. Union contracts provide for adequate vacation, sick leave, and personal days, and make sure we have a voice in when we can take the leave we need.
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