The Power of Unity: How CRNAs Are Making Their Voices Heard

By: Dr. Danny Bell, DNP, CRNA, Vallejo, Vacaville, Sacramento

As many of us know, navigating the complexities of raising teenagers can offer unexpected lessons applicable to other areas of life. This holds true for the ongoing contract negotiations for CRNAs. While some members may have recent experiences raising teenagers, others may be more familiar with being teenagers themselves. However, we can all likely relate to the communication challenges inherent in dealing with this unique demographic – eye rolls, grunts instead of sentences, and the occasional "brick wall" silence.

This strategy of unresponsive communication, which many of us encounter at home, has unfortunately mirrored our experiences at the bargaining table. For five months, negotiations have followed a predictable pattern: labor and management present their proposals, our Bargaining Team (BT) meticulously reviews them, proposes improvements, and submits counteroffers. We then engage in discussions about our reasoning for the changes. Management retreats to formulate their response, and upon their return, every single recommendation – every word, sentence, and idea – has been consistently dismissed. It's been a frustrating cycle of 12 proposals, each one a complete rejection of our suggestions. Like dealing with teenagers, we felt we were hitting a brick wall.

However, on September 19th, a turning point emerged. We called upon CRNAs across the region to join us for a bargaining session in Sacramento. Your dedication shone through, with over 20 CRNAs participating. Suddenly, management wasn't just facing the UNAC negotiator and the BT; they were faced with a room full of committed CRNAs - the very individuals who have provided years of dedicated service. This show of solidarity had a palpable impact. The following week, we observed a shift in management's approach. Their questions displayed a newfound sincerity. Notably, on September 26th, for the very first time, they presented a counterproposal that incorporated recommendations we had previously submitted. The brick wall crumbled when you showed up. 

These initial months of bargaining have underscored two key points. First, we are deeply disappointed by the initial lack of meaningful engagement from management. Second, the participation of our members has a direct and undeniable impact on the dynamics at the bargaining table. While the BT will continue to leverage sound logic, compelling examples, and unwavering persistence, your presence amplifies our message to a level that demands attention. We've spent decades seeking to be heard by management, but now it's time to show up and make them listen. Let's continue this momentum – Come show up and make them listen.