The impact of employment impasse and its resolution in the allied health professions

Although conflict within organizations is inevitable, any of its damaging consequences may be minimized or controlled if a consensual process for its rational resolution exists. Since collective bargaining is becoming an increasingly prevalent mechanism for governing the relationships between employees and employers in the allied health professions, knowledge about the various formal conflict resolution mechanisms available is vital. The concept of impasse and its resolution in negotiations and in administration of a labor contract are analyzed. The impact of impasse resolution is summarized, in order to emphasize the interdependent nature of the employment relationship.