Dear WSNA bargaining unit members at SHMC:

During these challenging times during the COVID pandemic, WSNA is working to stay on top of all developments, including Providence’s newly announced COVID policy which, among other things, requires nurses to be vaccinated or sign a declination form and places a moratorium on large indoor gatherings and non-essential travel. Providence did not bargain with WSNA prior to announcing this policy. Since this policy involves hours, wages and working conditions, it is a mandatory subject of bargaining. SHMC cannot just implement this policy without first bargaining with WSNA.

There are many components to this announced policy, and nurses deserve to have their input heard. Thus, we have sent a cease and desist and a demand to bargain involving all aspects of the Employer’s announced changes regarding its COVID measures, just as we would if SHMC suddenly announced any other big change in working conditions. We have requested all documents relating to these changes and copies of the declination forms.

WSNA strongly encourages nurses to be vaccinated.

We will send more information to our members as it becomes available.

Questions? Contact your Nurse Rep Jaclyn Smedley BSN, RN WSNA Nurse Rep at jsmedley@wsna.org.