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Front-line health workers reject tentative deal with Alberta Health Services
EDMONTON — Thousands of specialized health professionals have voted against a tentative contract with Alberta Health Services and other provincial agencies, leaving negotiations at a standstill.
The Health Sciences Association of Alberta says 59 per cent of members who cast ballots rejected the agreement during a province-wide vote held between Aug. 28 and Sept. 10. Turnout was a record 78 per cent.
HSAA represents more than 22,000 front-line workers, including paramedics, diagnostic imaging specialists, respiratory therapists, pharmacists, physiotherapists, dietitians, social workers, mental health and addiction counsellors, and hundreds of other professions. The bargaining unit covers employees working in acute care, continuing care, cancer treatment, primary care, assisted living, recovery and emergency health services.
Union president Mike Parker said the result shows growing frustration within a workforce facing burnout, staff shortages and heavy workloads that affect both patients and providers. “Our members are living these challenges alongside patients, often facing unmanageable workloads, short staffing, and burnout that is driving professionals out of the system,” he said.
The union is not calling a strike vote. Instead, it is pressing Alberta Health Services and the province to improve their wage offer. Parker said he believes a fair deal is still possible if government commits to “investing in the people who make health care possible.”
HSAA leaders will meet with members in the coming weeks to map out next steps in bargaining
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