Victory for patients, nurses: UI Health deal promises safer conditions, better wages
CHICAGO, IL – After four days of picketing, the 1,700 nurses represented by the Illinois Nurses Association at University of Illinois Health (UI Health) in Chicago have reached a tentative agreement with hospital management. The deal, announced early Sunday, marks a significant step toward resolving the disputes that led to the strike. A union-wide vote is scheduled for Tuesday to finalize the agreement.
The nurses began their strike on Wednesday, citing demands for better wages, enhanced safety protocols, and improved working conditions. They vowed to continue striking indefinitely if necessary but reached a breakthrough around midnight on Saturday.
“This deal represents what our staff and the patient community deserve,” said Liz Flores, a veteran nurse and union member. “Our members were fully engaged in these negotiations, from crafting contract language to staying informed through weekly updates. They were ready to stand strong.”