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Advanced Practice Providers (APPs) from Essentia’s East Market held a press conference on Monday evening at the Duluth Labor Temple to mark the one-year anniversary of their historic effort to secure union representation with the Minnesota Nurses Association (MNA).
Over the last year, the APPs have made significant strides in their organizing efforts, successfully forming their union and winning their election in July 2024. Despite the National Labor Relations Board’s certification of the vote, Essentia has repeatedly refused to recognize the union or come to the table to negotiate a contract in good faith. This refusal disregards the voices of caregivers who play a critical role in delivering patient care and supporting the health of their community.
“By ignoring our union and refusing to come to the bargaining table, Essentia is ignoring the very people who are essential to the care and well-being of patients across Minnesota. We deserve better than this. We deserve respect. We deserve to be treated as equals, with our concerns, ideas, and input heard and acted upon,” said Neissa Boehm, APRN, CNP, who works at Essentia Health’s Virginia Clinic in Virginia, MN.
At the press conference, APPs gathered to share their workplace experiences, express solidarity, and show a keen support for a return to the bargaining table to continue their ongoing fight for fair treatment and recognition. Advocating for the rights of healthcare workers and ensuring their contributions are respected, the APPs remain eager and ready to work collaboratively with Essentia toward a fair contract that reflects the true and vital value of their dedicated healthcare professionals.
At the time of writing, a petition in support of the APPs union has garnered support from a supermajority of East Market providers, with over 60% signing.
