News & Updates
HSA asking tough questions about recent attacks on RPNs
November 16, 2016
On Monday, the Vancouver Sun devoted front-page coverage to HSA's efforts to stop attacks on RPNs:
http://vancouversun.com/news/local-news/violent-assaults-on-nurses-by-patients-continue-at-abbotsford-hospital
Vaccinate or mask policy continues in BC for flu season
November 2, 2016
With flu season around the corner, HSA members are reminded of the provincial influenza control policy in effect in BC.
In spite of changes in other provinces, the flu prevention policy in BC has not changed, and health care workers who choose not to be vaccinated have options available to them, including wearing a surgical mask.
Health care workers must report their vaccination status confidentially through an on-line form.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
2017 Canadian Labour Congress Winter School
November 1, 2016
One of Canada's best labour schools, held at Harrison Hot Springs, in January and February 2017
It's HSA steward election time
October 19, 2016
Stewards are union representatives who offer support and advice to members. They play an essential role within HSA and the workplace by advocating for members, keeping members informed of union activities and providing democratic leadership. HSA provides training and ongoing support for members elected to these positions.
Elections will be held in many HSA chapters during the coming few weeks to select members to fill the following HSA positions for the coming year:
Take part in HSA's member survey
October 19, 2016
HSA has contracted with Viewpoints Research to conduct a survey to find out more about how HSA members feel about how their union responds to concerns and communicates important information. The survey will include questions related to contract negotiations, workload, member communications and other current issues.
The survey will be conducted on line. Members will receive email invitations starting October 20, and the survey will be open until November 1. It takes 8-12 minutes to complete.
Last Call for HSA Election Campaign School
October 7, 2016
Space is still available in HSA's 2-day, non-partisan election campaign school for members who are interested in working on election campaigns or running for political office. The school will focus on opportunities for HSA members to be involved in the May 2017 provincial election, but will also touch on municipal and federal elections.
HSA launches member video contest
October 6, 2016
HSA's member professions play an incredibly important role in modern health care and community social services. But it's not an easy story to tell.
On TV, doctors and nurses are everywhere, often depicted doing the specialized work of pharmacists, lab technologists, radiation technologists, social workers, counsellors and other key professionals in health care and community social services. The public needs to know more about who we are, and what we do. That's why HSA regularly advertizes on TV, radio and on line. But it's hard to fit all these professions in a 30-second spot.
Health authority spends a lot to deny a little
October 5, 2016
HSA REPORT MAGAZINE, SEPTEMBER 2016
BY RANDY NOONAN, HSA LEGAL COUNSEL
On May 17, 2016, Fraser Health Authority demonstrated a shocking disregard for the public spending of precious health care dollars.
Brenda Daudlin is a dietitian employed by Fraser Health at Burnaby Hospital. Dietitians like her are responsible for a broad range of nutritional practices, some which, if not done properly, can be dangerous and even life-threatening to patients.
Status quo is not an option
October 3, 2016
HSA REPORT MAGAZINE, SEPTEMBER 2016
BY VAL AVERY, PRESIDENT, HSA
We're hearing a lot of interesting things from members like you.
Over the summer, HSA circulated several surveys and invited members to participate in focus groups. Each explored different challenges and opportunities facing our union, and we'll be following up this fall with additional surveys, worksite visits and the annual regional meetings. It's all part of our commitment to giving members a greater say and a bigger role in charting our course.
Taking aim at workload and shortages
October 3, 2016
HSA REPORT MAGAZINE, SEPTEMBER 2016
Member surveys reveal that workload and shortages continue to be the greatest workplace concern -- and HSA is taking action.
After consulting extensively with members through a series of surveys over the summer, HSA is rolling out a multi-level effort to raise public awareness and get the provincial government to take action on the dire shortage of health science professionals. These shortages continue to create unsafe levels of workload, and contribute directly to wait lists that put patients' lives on hold, or at risk.