CUPE's Ontario Council of Hospital Unions says its members are experiencing crushing workloads in understaffed hospitals and the situation is taking a toll on their well-being. (Chris Young/The Canadian Press)
A union representing hospital workers in Ontario is urging increased funding for the province's healthcare system to address a worsening staffing crisis. CUPE's Ontario Council of Hospital Unions reports that its members, including nurses and clerical staff, are facing overwhelming workloads due to understaffed hospitals, negatively impacting their well-being.
A recent survey of over 750 members revealed that 26 percent have contemplated leaving their jobs, while 41 percent dread going to work due to heavy workloads, indicating a severe staffing crisis.
Sharon Richer, the union's secretary-treasurer, emphasized the urgency of the situation, noting the profound consequences on workers' mental health. Healthcare unions have long warned of a retention and recruitment crisis exacerbated by the demands of the COVID-19 pandemic, resulting in hospital closures and reduced services.
As the union negotiates a new contract, it calls on the government to increase full-time hospital staff and implement mandated minimum staff-to-patient ratios, similar to British Columbia.
While Ontario's nurses are among the highest paid in Canada, the union seeks a $1.25 billion annual investment over four years, above inflation.
The province's independent fiscal watchdog emphasizes the need to add over 86,000 nurses and support workers by 2028 to return to pre-pandemic staff levels. Survey respondents reported negative impacts on mental health, with 62 percent experiencing exhaustion and high stress, and 44 percent facing sleep difficulties.
The union's plea for staff-to-patient ratios aims to improve care quality, enhance staff satisfaction, and manage workloads. The Ontario Hospital Association has not provided immediate comment on the union's survey.
