Concerns grow with nurses going on strike

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - There have been more than two dozen bargaining sessions between the hospital and the nurses union.

Last night's session ended in another deadlock.

This is increasing concern among those who depend on the hospital and its nurses.

If nurses at Baystate Franklin Medical Center do strike on October 5th, as planned, it's unclear how their responsibilities will be filled.

Chuck Gijanto says,  “Ultimately we're here for the community and so our mission is to provide that care and we'll be prepared to do that next Friday if necessary. “

Baystate Franklin says they have a contingency plan in place that will ensure the hospital continues to operate, and patients are well cared for.

But there's an element of uncertainty about who would work in place of the striking nurses.

The sticking points continue to be over staffing, overtime pay and wages.

The hospital and the union plan to meet again on October 3rd.

If an agreement is not met then, the Massachusetts Nurses Association plans to proceed with the 24 hour strike and picketing next Friday.