Your UAW is working with Sparrow Administration on all frequent changes to be sure all Caregivers are safe in this time of uncertainly.  A couple days last week we had meetings until 8pm to ensure we had accurate information for Union and non-Union Members alike.

Any Caregiver screened at beginning of their shift found to have a fever of 100.4 (or higher) or are showing symptoms of the virus (see previous communications) will be sent home.  Those Caregivers should contact Employee Health at 517-364-2273.  Employee Health will instruct if you should report to work the next day.  You will not be penalized for an unexcused absence.  It is treated under the AA policy as outlined in our contract.

As we have always dealt with infectious patients (Hepatitis B/C, Influenza, Pneumonia, etc.) and we should always use PPE (personal protection equipment) at all times as this situation is no different.  We urge all Caregivers to visit this site www.sparrow.org/coronavirus for updates on all precautionary measures.  Visit often because things can change hourly. 

We urge Caregivers to pose questions at CaregiverQuestions@Sparrow.org and get answers to the most frequently asked questions.

As your President, I will put out as much information as rapidly as I get it, but the above website(s) will be most current. 

In an attempt to slow the virus, Region 1-D has instituted some temporary visitor policies for our Union office:

                ALL meetings scheduled through April 20^th have been canceled.

                Please handle your business over the phone or email

                If dropping something off, please leave it in the box marked “DROP-OFFS” in the lobby.

Please ignore rumors and seek out the facts using the websites given.

NO Caregivers are receiving hazard pay.  Certain classifications are receiving additional pay for picking up certain shifts.  I am meeting with administration to see if it warrants more classifications to receive additional pay as this situation changes. 

We are in this together so let’s work as a team.

In Solidarity,

Muhammad Qawwee

President, UAW Local 4911