Getting the facts to help protect members' rights
The Report: October 2000 vol.21 num.5
by YUKIE KURAHASHI
As HSAs Researcher, Pam Bush describes her job as "math and politics." Her job is wide-ranging, and varies according to the needs of the union, and current issues in health care.
As part of her job, Pam monitors regionalization and health care restructuring. Accordingly, she advises the union on various trends, as well as possible action items for union leaders and activists to help maintain both excellent health care delivery in BC, and good working conditions for HSA members. As part of this responsibility, Pam liases with HSAs District Representatives to health boards and community health centres, making sure they have the tools to maximize their roles as HSA representatives on these government-appointed bodies.
Pams expertise is brought to bear on various bargaining activities; for example, she researches and generates costing information, or finds comparative wages or benefits.
The HSA Researcher is called upon to provide background information on a variety of topics. Some recent issues highlighted include the proposed transfer of G.F. Strong to the Pearson site, the privatization of health care services, union jurisdiction (arising from Bill 28), and the optimal utilization of Registered Psychiatric Nurses. Currently, she is working on a position paper on rehabilitation, counselling and therapy services in B.C. For this, and for much of her work, Pam relies heavily on information gathered from the HSA membership. So dont be surprised if she gives you a call some day.
Pam also sits on various committees, including the BC Federation of Labours Legislative and Research Committee, determining the impact of provincial legislative changes on workers. She also sits on the Joint Advisory Committee which advises the Associate Deputy Minister of Health on funding and operational issues.
Additionally, Pam participates on the Vancouver / Richmond Human Resources and Health Policy Committee which reports to the Health Board. Issues which have been addressed by the Committee include the Boards policy in support of public health care services, regional information systems, the current review of rehabilitation services, and employment equity.
Pam Bush is also the staff person assigned to the Breast Cancer Run for the Cure Committee, which coordinates HSAs participation in the event every October.
If you require information on how to combat Program Management in your workplace, or if you have information regarding paramedical shortages in your area, please contact Pam at @email.
Pam is assisted by Administrative Secretaries Susan Isaacson and Sharon Derton, who are currently busy entering the results of a membership survey on rehabilitation, counselling, and therapy services.