Usb union denounces exploitation in Italian healthcare procurement

The Unione Sindacale di Base (Usb) union has raised alarms regarding public procurement within the Italian healthcare system (Asl), specifically in the Abruzzo and Molise regions. The union claims that current outsourcing practices lead to job insecurity, low wages, and worker exploitation, asserting that corporate profits are being generated at the expense of staff.

To address these issues, the Usb is demanding several key reforms: a 30% pay increase for Sunday work to compensate for the loss of rest and family time, and the formal recognition and payment of ‘tempo tuta’ (the time required to don and doff uniforms or protective gear) as active working hours.

Additionally, the union is calling for the consolidation of contracts to prevent forced part-time arrangements, which they argue disproportionately affects women and creates financial instability. The Usb is advocating for the internalization of services, suggesting that workers should be directly employed by the Asl rather than through external contractors to ensure better service quality and stability.