Des Moines hospitals have announced plans to unionize, citing wages, patient care. Here's what you need to know:

Nurses at UnityPoint Health-Des Moines announced on Tuesday that they’re looking to unionize in an effort to achieve better pay, benefits, and a safer environment for staff and patients. Tuesday afternoon a news conference was held by nurses to address why they’re forming a union.

Nurses at UnityPoint Health hospitals in the Des Moines metro gathered with the Teamsters Local 90 union Tuesday to organize and begin a push to unionize. Representatives for the nurses said that it was done to combat stagnant wages and unaffordable health insurance.

"We're stretched to the limit every day," said Jessica Golay, one of the organizing nurses from UnityPoint. "This isn't just about us — it's about ensuring our patients get the care they deserve."

Hear from UnityPoint nurses as they address their concerns and call for union representation on Tuesday, Nov. 26, 2024, in Des Moines.

UnityPoint Health nurses unionizing

Nurses at Des Moines' Methodist, Blank and Lutheran hospitals are being asked to join an effort that could lead to an employee union, two organizers of the effort tell Axios. Why it matters: The employees are seeking better pay and working conditions,