Why Join 1199?
To build recognition and respect for our field and improve patient care.
SWIPE TO HEAR 1199SEIU EMS MEMBER VOICES!
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Lisa Lopez, EMT, Lenox Hill, NY, NY
“With 22 years of experience as an EMT both in the privates and hospitals, I've witnessed firsthand the improved working conditions provided by our union. It safeguards us from discrimination, ensures fair pay, and offers equal advancement opportunities. We definitely have safer working conditions than in non-union shops.”
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Grant Brassard, AEMT-CC, CVPH, Plattsburgh, NY
“As members of 1199, we have a voice when it comes to safety issues. We have a guaranteed schedule that is posted a month out.”
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Luz Quinones, Driver, Jewish Home and Hospital in the Bronx
“It’s great to have no worries because I’m backed up by our union. Not only have I received health benefits, but also better wages and childcare assistance for my five kids. And I’m pursuing my education. All with the help of 1199.”
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Marvin Bathea (Left), Paramedic, St. John’s Hospital of Queens
“Through the strength of 1199SEIU, we won a greatly enhanced pension, health and disability benefits for all paramedics and EMTs who were first responders at Ground Zero. That’s the power of being a professional in 1199SEIU.”
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Richard Scherb, Brooklyn Paramedic
“One of my proudest moments was delivering a baby who was in cardiac arrest and we were able to save her life. At the end of the day, it’s all about one goal: making a difference in our patients’ lives for the betterment of our community.”
EMS professionals need a strong, effective voice
As first responders, we have the strongest voice when all members of the healthcare delivery team come together. By standing united, 1199SEIU EMS workers have won better pay, a voice in safety standards, and access to training & education opportunities and affordable healthcare, all the while improving patient care.
EMS workers have it better with 1199SEIU
When we negotiate our union contracts, first responder professionals elect our own bargaining committee and have final approval on our contracts. In this way, over 3,000 EMS workers have come together in 1199SEIU to negotiate and win the best possible contracts. Together, we have won:
Better wages with yearly raises
Affordable healthcare
Better standards for workplace safety
Retirement security
A fair grievance procedure
A say in fair process and financial incentives for O/T
No-cost educational and training opportunities
Participation in decision-making
Respect and a voice!
CHECK OUT 1199 FIRST RESPONDERS ON THE COVER OF THE 1199 MAGAZINE!
Click on the image above to read more about 1199 EMS members and “The Work We Do.”
Join 1199SEIU
Thousands of healthcare professionals are joining 1199SEIU, and now it’s our turn. Join a community of over 450,000 members across the East Coast. Together we can win higher pay, affordable benefits, and more.