Need advice! Private clinic nursing..

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I have an opportunity to work at a private medical clinic. Full time, all day shifts, slight cut in pay.

I am currently working on an acute in patient unit at a hospital for the mess we call AHS. I'm frankly fed up with AHS and the working conditions and have found acute care to not be for me.

I really like the preventative care model of the private clinic despite the fact that it's controversial ( there is a membership fee). I've always wanted to work in a clinic setting and preventative health is something I actually feel passionate about.

Anyway I'm confused about what to do... Would it be completely foolish to abandon a permanent 0.7 line with AHS for this?

I was thinking of taking it and staying casual at the hospital. What does everyone think? Could really use some advice, especially from those of you who have been in the system for a while. I don't want to continue burning out in a job I don't like...

The economy is terrible everywhere but we can't stop living. Sometimes it pays to take risks, and hopefully you will enjoy the new position. I know it's scary. I am also looking for a new job. However, if you're resillient, things often have a way of working out. Good luck![/quote']

Thanks! I think I'm gonna do it!!

Fingers crossed that I'm making the right move.

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That's it! It's official! I am no longer primarily employed by the mess they call AHS. I've accepted this position ( 4 days a week) at the private clinic and opted to remain at AHS on a casual basis only.

The new job is actually the same pay as AHS ( execept the shift differential but I will only be working day shifts here anyway), it is 4 eight hour days a week, all holidays and weekends off. Benefits are basically the same and I'll still get a flex spending account plus they even give a education allowance.

Very excited!!

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Specializes in geriatrics.

Congratulations! I think it's wise to find other options besides AHS. Hopefully you will enjoy your new job.

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That's it! It's official! I am no longer primarily employed by the mess they call AHS. I've accepted this position ( 4 days a week) at the private clinic and opted to remain at AHS on a casual basis only. The new job is actually the same pay as AHS ( execept the shift differential but I will only be working day shifts here anyway), it is 4 eight hour days a week, all holidays and weekends off. Benefits are basically the same and I'll still get a flex spending account plus they even give a education allowance. Very excited!![/QUOT

Best wishes to you, wish can hear your updates;

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Specializes in geriatrics.

This afternoon, the AB government introduced two new Bills which affects public service employees. One is a wage freeze with minimal costs of living allotted. The second Bill makes striking ilegal.

I'm not surprised. The ON government has used similar tactics over the years. I told my friend months ago that the Redford government was heading the same way. They don't care what any of the unions want at this time. Private nursing has it's drawbacks too, but it can't get much worse.

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We've been "essential services" for as long as I can remember. I guess they are going after the Ministry workers now.

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Didn't they also report a 1.3 billion dollar surplus a few days ago?

Meh, when I graduate I have no intention of dealing with the antics of AHS (re: workplace transformation). In the grand scheme of things I'm only a peon but I've noticed that most nurses I've observed are extremely complacent both in remuneration and working conditions yet they work themselves to exhaustion. Only speculation, but I think we'll see a large scale strike similar to the late 80s.

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Didn't they also report a 1.3 billion dollar surplus a few days ago? Meh when I graduate I have no intention of dealing with the antics of AHS (re: workplace transformation). In the grand scheme of things I'm only a peon but I've noticed that most nurses I've observed are extremely complacent both in remuneration and working conditions yet they work themselves to exhaustion. Only speculation, but I think we'll see a large scale strike similar to the late 80s.[/quote']

Exactly

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Specializes in geriatrics.

Actually, we probably won't see a large scale strike. The government intends to impose heavy fines and penalties if that occurs.

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Specializes in NICU, PICU, PCVICU and peds oncology.

The bills have to make it out of the Leg. There may be some PCs that haven't drunk the KoolAid and won't vote the party line. Even so, this just might be the hill to die on.

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Actually, we probably won't see a large scale strike. The government intends to impose heavy fines and penalties if that occurs.

AUPE got dinged with prison guards wildcat a few months back. They also nearly lost their building due fines back in the '00s when the LPNs walked. The fines add up fast.

I think that was when they legislated everybody back to work and made us essential services.

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Heartfelt Congratulations to you!!!

I won't reiterate what everyone else has said about AHS ( although, I will add one sentiment...Good riddance to bad rubbish!!)

I was with AHS before the became this conglomerate entity...in my city it was the Calgary Health Region. Last year, I took a 12 month Humanitarian LOA to go overseas (Libya) and work with the International Red Cross/ Red Crescent Society. When I returned, not only had my unit been closed, but so had several others in my hospital. They had already laid off almost 235 nurses and due to alleged budget cuts ( with the exception of the " super board" who conveniently allotted themselves extortionate bonuses, etc....then later discovered a 160 000 000 windfall of cash surplus....) but I digress....then the hammer fell! I was notified that I had been terminated due to " abandonment of position" !! WT....???!!!! I immediately contacted my union rep and began the grievance process...( and located my "approved" LOA request that was submitted 9 months prior to my departure!) At the end of the day....it was a waste of my time and energy!! AHS values us as musch as something they stepped in on the sidewalk.

I am now working in the private sector for a lovely family that allows me carte blanche with my care plans, values my 21 years of expertise....and has restored my inspiration and love for this profession!!

I think you made a wise choice for yourself....enjoy it!! I wish you all the best...keep in touch and let us know how you're doing!

Oh! and Happy Holidays to you!

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