Aspirus Health is disappointed to learn that registered nurses (RNs) represented by the Michigan Nurses Association (MNA) have voted against the strong and fair proposal sent on October 10, 2025.
Aspirus believes the proposal was comprehensive and responsive to employee demands as it includes a flexible and market competitive compensation package with an immediate 7.1% wage increase (which is a higher increase than the MNA’s last wage proposal with a “step schedule”) with a guaranteed wage increase in years two and three of the contract. This market-rate wage structure will bring Ironwood RNs in line with RNs across the Aspirus system. Over the past five years, the market increases have dramatically outperformed the MNA’s “step schedule.”
Additionally, the proposal includes increases in “Call Pay” (when nurses get called in for an unscheduled shift) and “Shift Differential” rates.
These compensation increases ensure Aspirus Ironwood can retain current staff and recruit new talent so that we can continue to provide high quality care in the U.P.
We will continue to bargain in good faith and look forward to our next bargaining session. Our continued goal is to come to an agreement that meets our threefold obligation to our patients, to our team members, and to the fantastic communities we serve.
