Message to Staff: INA Strike Vote at UI Health

Dear UI Health—

Today, the Illinois Nurses Association (INA) voted to authorize a strike.  At UI Health, we value the critical role our nurses and other health care professionals play in fulfilling our mission to provide high-quality care to our communities.

We are disappointed that, despite progress in the discussions, the INA leadership decided to call a strike vote. We are still in contract negotiations and are committed to continuing our work to reach a mutually acceptable agreement.  Since June, we have had 15 meetings with the INA, a number of them with the help of a federal mediator. Additional meetings are scheduled in the coming weeks.

UI Health has a proud history of leading in the healthcare sector with robust collective bargaining agreements that include a total compensation package that demonstrates our respect and appreciation for the critical role of our nurses and other healthcare workers.

We value and respect all essential workers and the critical roles they play in providing vital care for our community. While we hope a strike will not occur, we will take any necessary steps to prepare for a potential work stoppage to ensure our patients’ continued care and safety.

We will continue to keep you informed. Up-to-date information about the status of negotiations is available on the Intranet.

Sincerely,

Michael B. Zenn
Chief Executive Officer
University of Illinois Hospital & Clinics