.svg?iar=0&hash=F6049510E33E4E6D8196C26CCC0A64A4){kind=logo}
/hfh-logo-main--white.svg?iar=0&hash=ED491CBFADFB7670FAE94559C98D7798){kind=logo}
Union Contract Updates
Welcome
At Henry Ford Health, we are deeply committed to fostering an environment where every team member feels valued, supported and energized.
In support of this commitment—and to ensure our team members and communities have the most accurate information regarding ongoing union negotiations—updates about negotiations will be provided here.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
How does the negotiation process work?
When a union contract is up for renewal, representatives from both the employer and the union meet to review and discuss proposals for the new contract. Sometimes the parties agree on the terms easily; other times, there is a lengthy negotiations process. Contract negotiations are always governed by the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA), a federal labor law which requires employers and unions to negotiate in “good faith,” including meeting at reasonable times and responding to the other party’s proposals.
According to the NLRA, “to bargain collectively is the performance of the mutual obligation of the employer and the representative of the employees to meet at reasonable times and confer in good faith with respect to wages, hours, and other terms and conditions of employment, or the negotiation of an agreement or any question arising thereunder, and the execution of a written contract incorporating any agreement reached if requested by either party, but such obligation does not compel either party to agree to a proposal or require the making of a concession.”
While the law requires good-faith negotiations, an employer does not have to agree to a proposal or make concessions. An employer may present a last, best, final offer when good-faith negotiations have exhausted the prospects of reaching an agreement.
-
What topics are negotiated during collective bargaining?
As determined by the NLRA, the mandatory subjects for bargaining are:
- Pay
- Hours
- Benefits
- Terms and conditions of employment, (including things like seniority, scheduling practices, promotions, transfers, and grievance processes)
One party cannot force the other to bargain about anything that is not a mandatory subject. For example, healthcare organizations are not required to bargain over the Hospital’s chosen representative(s), closures, expansion, and issues related to employees outside the bargaining unit, especially supervisors.
-
How can team members learn about the negotiation process?
We are committed to keeping team members updated throughout negotiations. Team members can expect timely updates from their hospital leaders about what Henry Ford Health is offering.
-
Will my care be disrupted if strikes occur?
We do everything within our power to ensure patient care isn’t disrupted in any way during potential strikes. That includes contracting with outside labor, who are vetted and experienced in delivering the exceptional care our patients expect.
Our Guiding Principles:
- The safety of our team members, patients and their families is a top priority and will always strive to provide the safest, highest quality care and environment.
- We are committed to attracting and retaining our nation’s top healthcare professionals –fostering a powerful sense of belonging – where every team member has a chance to grow and thrive.
- We act with honor and integrity – living out our core values of Compassion, Innovation, Respect and Results.
- We are creating a path for sustainability – committed to responsible stewardship of our organization’s resources, so we can continue serving our communities for years to come.
- We ensure that all voices are heard and valued – engaging in active listening, open dialogue, continuous learning, and transparent communication.