Fort Kent Hospital Nurses Unite for a Monumental Tomorrow - 1 Vote Could Empower

Fort Kent Hospital nurses at Northern Maine Medical Center (NMMC) are casting their votes today to determine whether they will become part of the Maine State Nurses Association and National Nurses United. This crucial decision revolves around the need for better staffing, job security, fair wages, and improved patient care standards.

Fort Kent Hospital Nurses Stand Strong

The nurses at NMMC are making a significant choice that will impact their future. They are seeking to address several important issues, including safer staffing and scheduling practices, retention-focused benefits, job protections, and fair wages that recognize their years of dedication and experience. These dedicated healthcare professionals are also advocating for an RN-elected committee to ensure they have a voice in patient care standards, workplace violence prevention, and access to adequate supplies and equipment. Additionally, they are pushing for improved compensation for floating shifts, charge nurses, and precepting roles.

The Voting Process

The voting process is taking place in three two-hour blocks: from 6 a.m. to 8 a.m., from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., and from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. To ensure a fair election, a federal agent from the National Labor Relations Board is overseeing the process, and all ballots are kept confidential. A big step for Fort Kent Hospital.

Support from Maine Senate President

Maine Senate President Troy Jackson has thrown his support behind the nurses’ decision to unionize. In a letter dated January 14th, he expressed his strong endorsement of the union and urged the hospital administration to respect the nurses’ right to organize and form a union.

In his letter, President Jackson stated, “Throughout my entire lifetime, the nurses at NMMC have put in long hours and made sacrifices to get our community through our most difficult moments. The work you are doing now by banding together to stand up for what is right will ensure that nurses at NMMC are able to continue to provide quality and compassionate care to northern Maine families for years to come. Improving staff recruitment and retention, working conditions, and communication will only benefit patients in the end.”

The Path Forward

This vote is not just about a union; it’s about nurses coming together to advocate for their rights and the well-being of their patients. It’s a decision that will shape the future of healthcare in Fort Kent, ensuring that nurses can continue to provide high-quality care to their community.