The union representing nurses and other medical professionals at Saint Michael’s Medical Center ratified a three-year contract on June 27 that provides fair wages, values the contributions of employees, and ensures the hospital’s future viability. Specific financial terms were not disclosed.
“We are thrilled that the rank-and-file members of the union approved what we believe is a fair contract proposal,” said Saint Michael’s CEO Dr. Alan Sickles. “In light of declining reimbursements and the uncertainty about the future of Medicaid, this contract maintains the long-term sustainability of the hospital.”
The union, JNESO, represents some 350 nurses, respiratory therapists, radiology techs, polysomnographic techs, and CV techs and other medical professionals at the hospital.
The ratification of the contract by employees at Saint Michael’s averts a job action by health-care workers who have become more aggressive in seeking better pay and conditions. In 2025 alone, Becker’s Hospital Review reported 17 strikes at hospitals around the country through June 16.
Increased job-action activity among unionized nurses is coinciding with a shortage of nurses nationwide. The American Association of Colleges of Nursing said a shortage of 78,610 full-time equivalent registered nurses is expected in 2025.
In 2023, the union representing nurses at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in New Brunswick were on strike for four months before reaching an agreement. In 2022, nurses at Saint Michael’s also called for a strike that lasted one month.
Dr. Sickles said he felt it was important for the hospital to come to an agreement without contentious negotiations that could lead to a strike.
“We are committed to maintaining a respectful and collaborative working environment with our employees,” Dr. Sickles said. “We value the role that every single one of our employees plays in the success of the hospital.”
Saint Michael’s serves Newark and the surrounding communities.
