St Göran's Hospital Faces Staff Exodus Amid Salary Cuts

Staff at Capio St Görans Hospital in Stockholm are expressing significant concerns following the announcement of a new local agreement that will result in salary reductions for nurses, midwives, and nursing assistants working evening, night, and weekend shifts. Anesthetist nurse Lisa Linnros, who has dedicated 15 years to the hospital, has decided to resign, a decision she shares with at least 15 of her colleagues.

The changes arose unexpectedly, with the hospital management implementing a new model that diminishes financial compensation for those working unsocial hours. Linnros criticized the decision, highlighting a lack of communication and respect for staff contributions. She expressed a wish that the situation could be resolved, though she recognized the challenges in doing so.

Last December, the hospital terminated a previously favored local agreement that included a points system rewarding staff for working difficult hours. The management cited the need for a sustainable model, acknowledging rising costs associated with the existing system. Anna Linder Axeheim, chief safety representative for the Swedish Association of Health Professionals at St Görans, indicated that the administration's focus on balancing finances has placed the institution at risk of losing essential personnel.

After nearly a year of negotiations, union representatives felt compelled to accept the new agreement, fearing that the absence of any local contract would lead to even worse conditions for staff. However, the hospital recently extended an invitation for renewed negotiations, signaling a willingness to revisit the issue.

The staff affected by these changes include experienced nurses and assistants, particularly those with higher salaries, who will bear the brunt of the pay cuts. The Swedish Association of Health Professionals estimates that some employees could see monthly earnings reduced by hundreds to thousands of kronor. These new compensation structures are set to take effect in mid-January of the coming year.

Axeheim expressed concern over the potential loss of skilled colleagues, which could create a knowledge gap at the hospital. She emphasized the importance of clear communication from hospital management regarding their decision-making process.

Linnros has been providing support to colleagues grappling with the financial implications of the new agreement. She voiced her frustration regarding the management's approach to such a consequential decision, arguing that the value of the staff's experience is paramount and that the hospital administration is mishandling the situation.

The real impact of these changes may ultimately fall on the patients, as the loss of experienced healthcare professionals could lead to a decline in the quality of care provided. Linnros noted that the nursing team's collective expertise is a critical resource that should not be undermined.

As the situation develops, a crisis meeting is scheduled at St Görans Hospital to address these pressing concerns. Efforts to reach hospital management for comment are ongoing.