Members of SEIU Local 1199 are sounding the alarm over the impacts of what they’re calling a corporate takeover of local health care services.
They’re calling out what they say are changes in local care since several facilities were purchased by two companies, Optum and Summit Health.
Union members say work conditions have declined. They said their own health insurance has become too expensive, and it's become difficult to schedule appointments.
“I could not even schedule an operating room without paying $250 upfront out of pocket just to book a room where previously I was taken care of," said Registered Nurse Sima Xaba.
Local 1199 President George Gresham is calling on both companies to agree to fair contracts with employees, saying, in part, "Fair contracts with their employees that will ensure the type of high-quality health care jobs that New York desperately needs to care for patients and save lives."
State Sen. Pete Harckham agreed.
“I and my other elected colleagues, we stand with you," he said. "Your right to collective bargaining, your right to a fair contract, your right to good health care.”
Spectrum News 1 reached out to Summit Health and have not yet heard back.
Optum provided a statement saying, "Providing the best possible care to patients is a top priority. And one we can best achieve when our leaders and employees work together to help people live healthier lives and to help make the health system work better for everyone. A direct relationship, rooted in a collaborative, inclusive team environment, allows for the strongest, most effective and open communication between employees and leaders."