Oregon Nurses Association agrees to mediation

May 13, 2022

This week, Providence St. Vincent Medical Center (PSMVC) and the Oregon Nurses Association (ONA) took a significant step forward in the bargaining process when ONA agreed to engage a neutral federal mediator. This follows the recent strike authorization vote by Providence St. Vincent nurses represented by ONA.

Appointed by Federal Mediation & Conciliation Service (FMCS), the independent federal mediator serves as a liaison between two parties to help bridge gaps and accelerate dialogue while working toward a final resolution. The service is federally funded and provided at no cost to either party.

As a neutral party, the mediator’s role is to engage PSVMC and ONA to facilitate productive bargaining conversations.

For example, a mediator can get to the root of potential disagreements and communicate clear directives from each party. A mediator can often bring the larger picture into focus for bargaining parties while offering a unique outsider perspective on issues, large and small. Mediators can reframe contentious issues into shared problems with practical, workable solutions for both sides.

FMCS mediators have a long history of effectively bringing bargaining parties to resolution, especially within organizations that impact public health and safety. By agreeing to engage the federal mediator, both parties have demonstrated that our dedication to providing high-quality, compassionate care to our patients will always come first.

At PSVMC, we are committed to working collaboratively with ONA through the appointed mediator to reach consensus and agreement for the benefit of our valued nurses.

Related:

May 5, 2022 - Providence responds to strike authorization at Providence St. Vincent Medical Center