HONOLULU (KHON2) — In a significant development for healthcare in Hawaii, nurses at Kapiolani Medical Center for Women and Children are preparing to return to work on Sunday, Oct. 6, 2024, following the ratification of a new three-year contract.
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The contract, approved by an overwhelming 98% of nurses represented by the Hawaii Nurses’ Association (HNA), is the first in the state to include enforceable staffing ratios aimed at maintaining high standards of patient care.
“This is a landmark moment for healthcare in Hawaii,” said HNA President Rosalee Agas-Yuu. “We have successfully prioritized patient care over profit, and families can now seek care at Kapi‘olani with renewed confidence.”
The nurses’ return comes after a lockout lasting 22 days, during which they advocated for better working conditions and patient safety.
Driver dead after rollover crash on H-3 Kapiolani management indicated that the nurses would return to their posts after negotiations facilitated by federal mediators.
“This has been an emotionally challenging time for our nurses,” Agas-Yuu added. “While we’re excited to be back at the bedside, this contract ensures that hospital leaders will fully support safe, quality care for all patients.”
Agas-Yuu expressed gratitude for the outpouring of community support during the negotiations. “We want to thank the families, community leaders, and union members who stood with us throughout this process. Your support has made a difference.”
She also credited Governor Green for recommending federal mediation, which played a crucial role in reaching a fair agreement. “The mediators understood our concerns and helped facilitate a resolution that benefits our community,” she said.
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The newly ratified contract includes a nursing staffing matrix that both Kapiolani management and HNA have agreed to implement, setting a new standard for nurse-to-patient ratios in Hawaii’s healthcare system.
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