What’s the union difference? Better jobs for us, better care for our communities.
BHCHP workers are the union. We make decisions about the issues that affect us together.
A union is made up of us and fellow healthcare workers. We have more power together than we do alone. Right now, management has all the control. Once we win our union, federal law protects our current working conditions from being changed without our input.
A union contract is the only promise that counts.
Without a legally binding contract, management can change wages, policies and benefits whenever it suits them. Management may promise improvements if we decide not to form a union. But they have made promises in the past that never happened or didn’t last. BHCHP workers need our own voice and a written contract to guarantee improvements. With 1199SEIU, we have more power to win the best possible contracts.
Let’s look at the specifics of what 1199SEIU community health workers have won compared to non-union workers:
VOICE AND RESPECT
No Union
Management has the final say in everything.
An employer may modify or eliminate any benefits or programs it currently provides, as well as increase the cost to employees.
1199SEIU Members
Employees have a real voice and are respected.
Management has to sit down with employees and negotiate wages and benefits in a written contract.
Labor-management committees address safe staffing, scope of services, job safety, and other policies.
HEALTH BENEFITS
No Union
Inadequate
The employer can change the terms of your plan at any time.
1199SEIU Members
Healthcare at no or low cost.
Most full-time (and many part-time) 1199SEIU members have no-cost health, vision, dental and prescriptions for employee, children and spouse.
Most members pay no premiums, no deductibles, no co-pays.
JOB SECURITY
No Union
None.
BHCHP is an at-will employer, which means the employer may end employment with or without cause and with or without notice.
1199SEIU Members
A voice in the terms of your employment.
1199SEIU community health workers have won protections against lay-offs and subcontracting.
1199SEIU members have negotiated a fair grievance procedure, including safeguards against arbitrary and unfair disciplinary actions.
1199SEIU ensures the ability to advocate for our clients without fear of repercussions.
Wages
No Union
No guarantee on professional pay.
You can be hired for the same position and make a different salary depending on the whims of the employer.
1199SEIU Members
Fair Wages with Regular Raises
1199SEIU community clinic workers have won some of the most competitive wages in New York and the country, including step increases and experience differentials for years of service and years in profession.
TRAINING AND CONTINUING EDUCATION
No Union
Inadequate.
1199SEIU Members
Members have negotiated access to no-cost or low cost training and education opportunities through the 1199SEIU Massachusetts Training Fund (MA TUF), including:
Free career and academic counseling
Free professional certification classes
Financial assistance for undergraduate and advanced degree programs in healthcare and related fields
Free or low-cost workplace skills courses
Free English for speakers of other languages courses
CHILDCARE
No Union
Inadequate.
1199SEIU Members
Many 1199SEIU members have childcare benefits at no cost or low cost
Includes vouchers for day care and summer camp.
