As an Occupational Therapist, I feel strongly that Unions are essential. So many of us have lost our jobs, had our hours cut (or prolonged), been forced to change or split locations, as dictated by our clinics, hospitals, admin, etc. Recent changes in the therapy reimbursement system (cough,cough, PDPM) and then immediately followed by the global pandemic, my opinions on Unions have grown stronger and stronger. I have been fortunate to have the opportunity to work for a public school and I was able to be part of the teachers’ union. In my personal experience, being part of a union allowed me so many benefits – most importantly peace of mind. Knowing that my job was secure and I had a collective bargaining agreement with clear expectations for working hours, sick and medical leave time, salary schedules, and caseload management were just a few of the benefits allotted to me through the Teachers’ Union.

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Big bunny, Petey, and I would like to share our thoughts with you today about Unions. As an Occupational Therapist, I feel strongly that Unions are essential. So many of us have lost our jobs, had our hours cut (or prolonged), been forced to change or split locations, as dictated by our clinics, hospitals, admin, etc. Recent changes in the therapy reimbursement system (cough,cough, PDPM) and then immediately followed by the global pandemic, my opinions on Unions have grown stronger and stronger. I have been fortunate to have the opportunity to work for a public school and I was able to be part of the teachers' union. In my personal experience, being part of a Union allowed me so many benefits – most importantly peace of mind. Knowing that my job was secure and I had a collective bargaining agreement with clear expectations for working hours, sick and medical leave time, salary schedules, and caseload management were just a few of the benefits allotted to me through the Teachers' Union. I wish that one day the therapy fields (OT, PT, SLP, RT, etc.) will have the opportunity to be in a Union like nurses and teachers. I know that no system is fail-proof or perfect, but knowing you are not the only one fighting and advocating for you and your coworkers' is so comforting. To learn more please check out @pswpu! Paid for By the American Federation of State, County & Municipal Employees

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