Overtime restrictions resulting in understaffed units, say expert
Union leaders are raising concerns that a new fatigue management policy at Island Health is worsening staffing shortages and contributing to burnout among health-care workers, according to a report.
The policy, introduced this spring, limits employees to working fewer than 16 hours in a 24-hour period and restricts the number of consecutive days staff can work, CBC reports.
Island Health says the policy is intended to ensure front-line staff receive enough rest to reduce workplace injuries and sick time, and to maintain quality patient care. However, unions representing a range of health-care professionals say the restrictions on overtime are resulting in understaffed units, even when staff are available and willing to work extra hours. They warn this is increasing the strain on remaining staff and affecting patient care.
Sarah Kooner, president of the Health Sciences Association of B.C.,—which represents health professionals such as lab technologists and physiotherapists—said overtime is often necessary.
"We don't want to be relying on overtime as a long term solution," she said in the CBC report.
"But our members also know that in the face of chronic staffing shortages, overtime is often the only way to make sure that patients are getting the care that they need."
The Hospital Employees’ Union, representing support staff such as care aides and housekeepers, reports that its members are frequently denied overtime shifts, leaving care teams short-staffed. The B.C. Nurses’ Union also reports negative impacts, with president Adriane Gear telling CBC that nurses are being denied overtime, resulting in fewer nurses on the floor and more work for those on shift. Gear said this is contributing to burnout among nurses.
In a statement to CBC, Island Health said that overtime has not been eliminated and the policy is focused on staff wellbeing. The health authority also referenced cost-cutting measures, saying it is reviewing scheduling practices to reduce the frequency of staff working excessive shifts or at premium pay rates.
An internal memo obtained by CBC shows that, as of July 11, no overtime is to be approved for health care assistants, nursing unit assistants, or for general workload coverage, except in cases where an appeal to senior leadership is successful, CBC reported.
The policy comes as Island Health faces financial pressures from the province. Last week, the authority laid off 117 employees, with more layoffs expected, according to CBC.
