The Ministry of Health announced plans yesterday to consolidate certain administrative and corporate services across the regional health authorities and Provincial Health Services Authority (PHSA) into a new standalone shared-services organization.
“This announcement by the Ministry of Health is understandably raising concerns for HEU members, particularly those working in information technology, administrative and related support roles,” says HEU secretary-business manager Lynn Bueckert.
“While government has said no decisions have been made yet about which services or positions will be impacted, we demand full transparency and broad consultation as the ministry moves ahead with this process.”
At present, no details have been provided to HEU beyond what was announced to members by government and health employers at worksite meetings beginning yesterday and through the ministry’s own website.
In their media release, the government outlined that human resources, supply chain, finance and legal functions may ultimately be consolidated into a shared-services organization, with implementation expected to begin no earlier than spring 2026.
“HEU members have carried B.C.’s health system through some of its most difficult and darkest years - no one should be left uncertain about the future of their work,” says Bueckert. “Any proposal that shifts work out of the bargaining unit, or undermines collective agreement protections will be met with firm resistance from HEU."
Right now, HEU is seeking more information from the Ministry of Health on next steps of this process. The union will keep members informed as new details emerge.