Dear Registered Nurse,

      As you may be aware, negotiations between the University of California and the California Nurses' Association (CNA) have been going on for some months.  Last week, the University proposed that nurses receive salary increases now rather than await the conclusion of bargaining. We are pleased that we are able to extend a salary increase of 6%-8% for career nurses effective September 11, 2005.( click here to see salary grid) The salary adjustments are in keeping with our philosophy of providing competitive salaries so that we may continue to employ the very best nurses for our Health System.

    The University has presented to CNA a three-year proposal with salary increases ranging from 16% to 22%, along with enhanced per diem rates and the creation of a special staffing ratio committee .  We are hopeful that we will reach agreement  for a full contract in the very near future.

    We appreciate your professionalism  and  commitment to exemplary patient care which continue to be a source of pride for UCLA Healthcare.

Sincerely,


Heidi Crooks, RN                                                             David L. Callender, MD, MBA
Senior Associate Director for                                         Associate Vice Chancellor and CEO
Patient Care Services                                                      UCLA Hospital System