Biomedical Engineering Consolidation Update 28 th September 2011 Chris Buck P.Eng

Background What is being proposed How will it effect you The planned implementation process Communication and questions Agenda

Background September 2009 Ministry of Health (MoH) and the 4 partner organizations launched the Lower Mainland Consolidation Process Consolidation of 12 areas to improve service and sustainability of our health system by saving $100 million. LMC is led by a Steering Committee of the MoH and the 4 CEO’s of FHA, PHC, PHSA and VCH. PHC was assigned to lead Biomedical Engineering by the Steering Committee and in October 2009 the Executive Director was appointed The excluded positions were created in April 2010, now it is time to move forward with union discussions to integrate the rest of the staff into one consolidated organization.

What is being proposed S54 notice provided to HSA and HEU September 28th. –Consistent with Section 54 of the Labour Relations Code HEU and HSA have been notified of the intention to begin a 90 day consultation period regarding proposed changes to the organizational structure of Biomedical Engineering. The S54 process –The employer works with the unions to develop a Labour Adjustment Plan to support proposed organizational restructuring. What approach will the transition follow? –As much transparent and timely communication with staff as possible while honoring the union’s role as your bargaining agent. –Provide staff with the same information at the same time –Follow values of PHC and the Health Authorities

What changes will be discussed? Three main areas of focus 1.Transferring FH, PHSA and VCH LM Biomedical Engineering employees to PHC 2.Implementing a new organizational structure 3.Standardizing classifications and job descriptions

Why a single employer? –Having one employer will help Biomedical Engineering to operate as a seamless, efficient service. Operational needs are better met under one HR group, one Payroll, one scheduling, etc. It will also enable creation of one certification, one seniority list and greater opportunities for staff within Biomedical Engineering. Why Transfer to PHC? –PHC is the CEO Steering Committee appointed lead organization for Biomedical Engineering. Why Reorganization? –A standard organizational structure will enable meaningful metrics to be gathered –Workload balance will be achievable –Quality improvement will be achievable across the program Why Reclassify? –Standard classifications for similar functions provide equity and fairness in the new organization. Why are these changes needed?

–Most staff will continue to work at their current sites. –All staff will port their seniority and benefits. –There will be one seniority list. –Greater details of the transfer process will be discussed first with the unions and communicated to you as soon as possible. What is the impact of the transfer of employer?

What is the impact? Changes to positions will not directly impact most staff. For some, reporting relationships may change. Hours of work may change for some staff What are the details on position changes? There will be no reduction in staffing numbers Details are subject to union consultation. All staff will be treated with dignity and respect, any changes will be discussed fully and all options will be presented before changes are made What will a Reorganization mean?

–All plans are proposed and subject to union consultation, it would be inappropriate to discuss or predict specific outcomes at this time. –Similar work is currently performed by different classifications, it is propose to standardize these positions. –The reclassification effort does not reflect a value placed by leadership on the work. Consolidation is about saving health care dollars, reclassification is about creating equity in the new organization. What will Reclassification mean?

One organization under a single employer with a structure to support standardized service for better patient care. A structure that improves service to care providers and patients by enabling a more efficient distribution of workload. Single certification provides equal job opportunities across all LMC Biomedical Engineering. Greater equity through standardization of classifications and hours of work. What will the future look like?

What you can do to help yourself –Take care of yourself Use resources you have available such as your manager, HR Advisor or EFAP if needed Communicate your questions and/or concerns. Don’t hesitate to contact your Managers, or Directors directly. –Maintain a positive attitude –Focus on getting the work done –Pay attention to communications What role do you play?

Consultation with unions (90 days) The Transfer to a single employer is planned for February Timelines for other changes are subject to discussion with the unions. There will be a period of transition. No expected impact on our actual services over the period of transition. Initiatives related to standardizing service e.g. implementation of the CMMS, will continue to take place and are not part of the Section 54. What is the process?

Key Message points There will be no layoffs or reduction in staffing For most staff there will be little or no impact as a result of the reorganization There will be one seniority list All staff will become PHC employees Staff will be regularly updated on progress

Questions? Chris Buck P.Eng