Health care institutions under the National Labor Relations Act

Abstract

This article reviews the right of employees to organize at workplaces including private non-profit hospitals. Cognizant of the special vulnerabilities of healthcare institutions to strikes, Congress amended the National Labor Relations Act, detailing obligations for contract negotiations notices, impasse resolution and case handling procedures, as well as strike notice requirements. This article considers the impact of the surge in organizing activity as these hospitals, and advises that the success of these amendments will be judged by the frequency and seriousness of strikes and their impact on patient care. The author advises that if unions and administrative personnel pursue responsible collective bargaining, the proper framework will exist for meaningful and peaceful labor relations in the health care industry.