Tacoma, WA – Contract negotiations between the healthcare workers’ union and Fresenius are progressing, yet meaningful hurdles remain regarding workplace safety and patient care standards.The bargaining team, comprised of Jovona Trevino, Krista Smith, and Maria Lucas, all Patient Care Technicians (PCTs), reported both gains and ongoing disputes in recent discussions with management.
Progress on Compensation and Career Development
Table of Contents
- 1. Progress on Compensation and Career Development
- 2. Disagreement Over Safety and Patient Scheduling
- 3. upcoming Bargaining dates and Union Action
- 4. Understanding Healthcare Union Negotiations
- 5. Frequently Asked Questions about the Fresenius Negotiations
- 6. What specific wage increase percentage is UFCW 3000 currently proposing for Dialysis Technicians?
- 7. Negotiation Progress for fresenius Medical Care Employees: Insights from UFCW 3000 updates
- 8. Current Status of Fresenius Medical Care Contract Negotiations
- 9. Key Issues at the Negotiation Table
- 10. Recent UFCW 3000 Updates & Negotiation Timeline
- 11. Understanding the Impact on Fresenius Employees
- 12. Resources for Fresenius Employees & Staying Informed
A tentative agreement has been reached too introduce a new “PCT III” job classification to the contract. This development is expected to result in more equitable pay scales and a fairer distribution of job responsibilities within the healthcare facility. Furthermore,a preliminary agreement concerning the “GO4RN” program has been established,offering a 5% pay increase for each completed quarter of the Registered nurse (RN) education program for participating PCTs.These incentives aim to support career advancement opportunities for dedicated staff.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of healthcare support occupations is projected to grow 23 percent from 2022 to 2032, much faster than the average for all occupations.This underscores the critical role of PCTs and the need for fair compensation and career pathways. Source: BLS
Disagreement Over Safety and Patient Scheduling
Despite the positive developments, negotiations have stalled over crucial issues concerning employee safety and patient scheduling. Management reportedly rejected proposals for a zero-tolerance harassment policy, and, following accusations of “inflammatory remarks” from the union team, indicated a lack of interest in incorporating such a safeguard into the contract.The bargaining team continues to advocate for a robust system to address and resolve complaints, ensuring a safe working surroundings for all staff.
Additionally, Fresenius management remains unwilling to commit to specific contractual language regarding patient scheduling protocols. The union emphasizes that a collaborative dialogue is essential to optimize patient care and ensure sufficient staffing levels within clinics.
Did You Know? A 2023 study by the American Nurses Association found that 20% of nurses reported experiencing workplace violence. This highlights the urgency of implementing strong anti-harassment policies in healthcare settings.
upcoming Bargaining dates and Union Action
The next round of negotiations is scheduled for September 16th and October 3rd. The union is urging its members to actively participate in the process by signing a petition and attending the upcoming CAT (Care Advocate Team) meeting.Members are also encouraged to demonstrate “Union Pride” by visibly displaying their support at work.
The CAT meeting will be held on Sunday, September 14th, from 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM, at the Large Conference Room, 13718 Pacific Ave S, Tacoma, WA 98444, and also accessible online via Zoom.
| Date | Event | Location |
|---|---|---|
| September 14, 2025 | CAT Meeting | Large Conference Room, Tacoma, WA & Online via Zoom |
| September 16, 2025 | Bargaining Session | Undisclosed |
| October 3, 2025 | Bargaining Session | Undisclosed |
“According to Fresenius, our rights and our desires to be respected and protected by the company’s policies seem inflammatory. We say: let’s show them our strength by signing the petition!” stated Maria Lucas, a PCT II and member of the bargaining team.
Understanding Healthcare Union Negotiations
Union negotiations in healthcare are a critical process for ensuring fair labor practices, safe working conditions, and quality patient care. These negotiations typically cover a wide range of issues, including wages, benefits, staffing levels, and workplace safety protocols. A strong union presence can empower healthcare workers to advocate for their rights and the needs of their patients.
Pro Tip: Staying informed about contract negotiations and actively participating in union activities can substantially impact the outcome and ensure your voice is heard.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Fresenius Negotiations
- What is a PCT III job classification? This is a new job classification being proposed to recognize and compensate more experienced Patient Care Technicians with additional responsibilities.
- What is the GO4RN program? It’s a program supporting PCTs pursuing their RN education, offering a 5% pay increase per completed quarter.
- Why is a zero-tolerance harassment policy significant? it creates a safe and respectful work environment, protecting employees from abuse and discrimination.
- What are the next steps in the negotiation process? The union team will continue negotiations on September 16th and October 3rd.
- How can I support the union? You can sign the petition, attend the CAT meeting, and show your Union Pride at work.
- What is the role of the CAT team? The Care Advocate Team serves as a communication channel between union members and the bargaining team.
- What happens if an agreement isn’t reached? Potential outcomes include continued negotiation, mediation, or, in some cases, a strike authorization vote.
What are your thoughts on the importance of workplace safety policies in the healthcare industry? Share your comments below and share this article with your network!
What specific wage increase percentage is UFCW 3000 currently proposing for Dialysis Technicians?
Negotiation Progress for fresenius Medical Care Employees: Insights from UFCW 3000 updates
Current Status of Fresenius Medical Care Contract Negotiations
As of September 11, 2025, negotiations between Fresenius Medical Care and the United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 3000 are ongoing. These negotiations directly impact the working conditions, wages, and benefits of fresenius dialysis technicians, nurses, and other essential healthcare professionals across Washington state. This article provides a detailed overview of the progress, key sticking points, and what Fresenius employees need to know. We’ll focus on updates directly sourced from UFCW 3000 communications, aiming to provide clarity for those seeking data on the Fresenius contract negotiations.
Key Issues at the Negotiation Table
UFCW 3000 represents a significant number of Fresenius Medical Care employees, and their priorities reflect the challenges faced by frontline healthcare workers. Several core issues are driving the negotiation process:
Wage Increases: A primary demand is for ample wage increases to reflect the rising cost of living and the critical nature of their work. Dialysis technician wages are a central focus, with the union advocating for pay that recognizes their specialized skills and responsibilities.
Staffing Ratios: Safe patient care is paramount. UFCW 3000 is pushing for improved staffing ratios to ensure adequate support for dialysis patients and reduce the burden on individual employees. This includes advocating for more dialysis nurse staffing and technician support.
Healthcare Benefits: Maintaining affordable and thorough healthcare benefits is crucial. Negotiations are addressing potential changes to health insurance plans and ensuring continued access to quality care for Fresenius employees and their families. Fresenius employee benefits are a key area of concern.
Paid Time Off (PTO): The union is seeking improvements to PTO policies, including increased sick leave and vacation time, to support work-life balance and employee well-being.
Retirement Security: Discussions are underway regarding retirement plans and ensuring a secure financial future for long-term Fresenius employees.
Recent UFCW 3000 Updates & Negotiation Timeline
While specific details of negotiation sessions are often confidential, UFCW 3000 has been providing regular updates to it’s members. Here’s a summary of recent developments (as of September 11, 2025):
August 28, 2025: UFCW 3000 members held informational pickets outside several Fresenius facilities to demonstrate solidarity and raise awareness of the ongoing negotiations. These pickets were not strikes, but rather a visible display of support for the union’s bargaining goals.
September 5, 2025: Negotiating teams met for a full day, focusing primarily on the wage proposal. UFCW 3000 presented a comprehensive proposal outlining their members’ demands for a significant wage increase,citing the company’s profitability and the essential role of dialysis workers.
September 9, 2025: Fresenius Medical Care presented a counter-proposal, which UFCW 3000 representatives described as “disappointing” and “falling short of addressing the critical needs of frontline workers.” Specific details of the counter-proposal have not been publicly released.
Ongoing: Negotiations are scheduled to continue throughout the week of September 11th, with a focus on reaching a tentative agreement on wages and benefits.
Understanding the Impact on Fresenius Employees
The outcome of these negotiations will have a direct impact on the daily lives of Fresenius Medical Care employees. Here’s how different aspects of the contract affect various roles:
| Employee Role | Key Concerns | Potential Impact of Negotiations |
|—|—|—|
| Dialysis Technician | Wages, Staffing Ratios, PTO | Increased pay, improved patient care environment, better work-life balance |
| Registered Nurse (RN) | Wages, Healthcare Benefits, Retirement | Competitive salary, continued access to quality healthcare, secure retirement savings |
| Certified Hemodialysis Technician (CHT) | skill Recognition, Career Advancement, Wages | Formal recognition of skills, opportunities for professional growth, higher earning potential |
| Patient Care Technician (PCT) | training Opportunities, Wages, Benefits | Enhanced training programs, improved compensation, comprehensive benefits package |
Resources for Fresenius Employees & Staying Informed
Staying informed is crucial during this negotiation period. Here are some valuable resources:
UFCW 3000 Website: https://ufcw3000.org/ – This is the primary source for official updates, negotiation schedules, and member resources.
UFCW 3000 Facebook Page: Regular updates and member discussions.
Fresenius Medical Care Internal Communications: Check your company email and internal dialogue channels for updates from management.
* Union Representatives: Reach out
