More than 1,400 unionized healthcare workers at WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital are preparing to strike, after rejecting what their employer calls its “Last, Best and Final” contract offer.
The strike is scheduled to begin at 7 a.m. on Monday, July 22, and will last five days, with picket lines ending at 7 a.m. on Saturday, July 27. Union members announced the action at a press conference Friday morning, citing stalled negotiations and a lack of movement from WellSpan on key concerns, most notably, protections against outsourcing.
In recent years, WellSpan has outsourced its biomedical department and increased its use of traveling nurses and physicians. The union argues this trend puts long-term patient care and job stability at risk. While union leaders say they remain open to talks, they say the company has failed to address the outsourcing issue in its final offer.
WellSpan, a non-profit healthcare provider based in York, said in a statement it is prepared to maintain patient care throughout the strike. “Our comprehensive plan allows us to remain fully committed to serving our patients without interruption,” said Niki Hinckle, Senior Vice President, West Region.
The company defended its offer, highlighting wage increases of 3.5% in 2025, followed by 3% raises in both 2026 and 2027, along with additional benefits. The union, however, is seeking larger increases—7.5% or \$1.50 per hour (whichever is greater) in 2025, and 5% in each of the two following years.
WellSpan’s public statements have focused on compensation improvements and fiscal challenges, including reduced government healthcare funding, but have not addressed the union’s concerns regarding outsourcing.
Source: Tri-State Alert