The union representing nurses and other medical professionals at Saint Michael’s Medical Center ratified a three-year contract that provides fair wages, values the contributions of employees and ensures the hospital’s future viability, the hospital announced Tuesday.
“We are thrilled that the rank-and-file members of the union approved what we believe is a fair contract proposal,” Saint Michael’s CEO Dr. Alan Sickles said. “In light of declining reimbursements and the uncertainty about the future of Medicaid, this contract maintains the long-term sustainability of the hospital.”
The union, JNESO, represents some 350 nurses, respiratory therapists, radiology techs, polysomnographic techs, and CV techs and other medical professionals at the hospital.
The agreement is significant for a number of reasons, starting with this: It has become increasingly difficult for hospitals to reach agreements with their nurses’ unions. In 2025 alone, Becker’s Hospital Review reported 17 strikes at hospitals around the country through June 16.
In 2023, the union representing nurses at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in New Brunswick were on strike for four months before reaching agreement. In 2022, nurses at Saint Michael’s also called for a strike that lasted one month.
Sickles said he felt it was important for the hospital to come to an agreement without contentious negotiations that could lead to a strike.
“We are committed to maintaining a respectful and collaborative working environment with our employees,” he said. “We value the role that every single one of our employees plays in the success of the hospital.”
Saint Michael’s, a safety net hospital serving Newark and the surrounding communities, has been recognized nationally with numerous accolades, including being named one of 75 top teaching hospitals in the United States by the Leapfrog Group. Saint Michael’s also consistently receives top marks for patient safety from the Leapfrog Group and Healthgrades. The hospital has also been recognized by the Lown Institute, receiving an A for social responsibility.
