More than 1,500 healthcare workers from across New York packed the West Capitol Park in Albany for a rally in support of two bills that address a “patient care crisis” in the state. The Safe Staffing for Quality Care Act and the Safe Patient Handling Act would create safe nurse-to-patient staffing ratios for acute care facilities, and a statewide safe patient-handling policy.

1199SEIU members at Ferncliff Nursing Home in New York’s Mid-Hudson Valley were angry and unwilling to simply sit back when they learned about the discriminatory action of their employer. “The environment at a nursing home and the dedication and hopefulness of the caregivers are critical to the health and well-being of the residents,” said Darrell Sherman, a union delegate.

Dan Kinsley was instrumental in bringing his co-workers in the OR at Largo together to improve staffing levels this fall. He was also among the first team to start the organizing drive at the University of Maryland Hospital this summer.

Diane Rivera, CNA, 33-year employee at New Horizon Rehabilitation and Care Center in Ocala.