Trends in hospital unionization and a predictive model for unionizing success

Between 1976 and 1980, the average annual increase in hospital expenses was 12.7%. Wages for employees accounted for approximately one-half of this increase. Because employee wages have such a great effect on hospital costs, it is important to study those factors that could curtail management's control over these expenses. One such factor is the establishment of labor unions. This study outlines the structural factors that encourage union activity, as well as the factors that contribute to its success. Variables studied include: the types of employees in the bargaining unit; the total number of employees in the bargaining unit; the number of hospitals in the same city; the control of the hospital and the presence of a profit motive; the number of beds in the hospital; the occupancy level of the hospital; and the region of the country in which the hospital is located.