Nurses at Corewell Health East in southeast Michigan, organized by the Teamsters, ratified their first contract, securing a 15% total wage increase over three years and a one-time lump-sum payment for a previously withheld wage increase.

The agreement covers more than 10,000 registered nurses across nine hospitals in the region, plus outpatient clinics and the Southfield service center.

The contract creates a staffing committee to directly engage with management on nurse-to-patient ratios and other staffing concerns.

Teamsters’ health care director called the deal notable for its dedicated safe staffing article, a provision still uncommon in nursing contracts nationwide.

Corewell Health East emphasized a shared commitment to supporting nurses while meeting patient and community needs in response to the agreement.

Critics from leadership questioned by union leaders include claims that the company spent millions on consultants and attorneys to discourage organizing; Corewell has not yet commented.

In addition to safe staffing, the contract introduces a new PPO health plan option for nurses and strengthens other workplace protections.

A veteran nurse described the agreement as a meaningful victory for both nurses and patients, highlighting the sense of having a seat at the table after decades in the profession.

Nurses and Teamsters officials framed the deal as protecting both staff and patient care, with improved job security and working conditions cited.

The nine-hospital Corewell Health East system includes facilities like William Beaumont University Hospital, with negotiations having begun in mid-2025 after a 2024 unionization vote.

The contract represents a successful outcome for the Teamsters in organizing nurses within Corewell Health East.

The Teamsters began negotiations in June 2025 on behalf of roughly 10,000 nurses across nine Corewell hospitals.