Sparrow Health System in Lansing, which recently merged with Ann Arbor’s University of Michigan Health, and its four UAW bargaining units have approved new two-year contracts that includes a clause for an additional one year extension.
“We were able to vastly improve our work areas and protect our members from violence and harassment, which seem to be increasing at work sites,” says Muhammad Qawwee, president of UAW Local 4911. “We were also able to maintain and lower our health insurance premiums in the later years of our contract and bargain on pretty good wages to keep stability in an unstable world around us.”
The contracts impact nearly 2,200 caregivers, including those in support operations; food and nutrition services; facilities; technicians who work directly with patients in respiratory therapy, radiology, physical therapy, and pharmacy; and many caregivers who support Sparrow Specialty Hospital. The previous contracts expired Nov. 30.
“These contracts allow us to sustain and grow our workforce,” says Cindy LaFountain, director of caregiver relations at Sparrow. “We were able to migrate our caregivers to our core health plans as well as reduce restrictions that will help us to recruit those who bring experience into Sparrow.”
Negotiations on new contracts began Sept. 13 and tentative agreements were reached Dec. 2. Union members ratified all four agreements on Dec. 9. Two of the units gave 100 percent approval.