Guardian Nurses Healthcare Advocates, a nurse-led healthcare advocacy organization that has guided thousands of patients through the healthcare maze for more than 21 years, is proud to announce the launch of its high-touch Mobile Care Coordinator® (MCC) program for United Steelworkers Local 10-00086 Merck Employees Health and Welfare Fund, beginning August 1.
This new partnership marks the latest expansion of Guardian Nurses’ acclaimed MCC program, which brings registered nurses directly to union members whenever and wherever they need help—at home, in the hospital, or at a doctor’s office.
Lauren Strauss, BSN, RN, of Plymouth Meeting, PA, will lead the MCC efforts for USW Local 10-00086 members. Nurse Strauss joined the Guardian Nurses team in 2025 with more than 11 years of nursing experience. She has worked in a large, urban medical center in multiple critical care areas, as well as a med-surg unit. Her most recent clinical experience was at an ambulatory surgical center.
The United Steelworkers Local 10-00086 represents approximately 2,000 workers at Merck & Co. in West Point, Pa., including housekeepers, chemists, utility workers, plumbers, millwrights, stationary engineers, and Bio-Technicians.
“Our nurses meet people at critical points in their healthcare journey,” said Betty Long, RN, MHA, President and Founder of Guardian Nurses. “We love working for union members and look forward to getting them the quality, timely care they need. Peace of mind replaces frustration and fear when patients are confident that they are receiving the best healthcare experience possible with a caring, competent, professional nurse by their side, every step of the way.”
Guardian Nurses, recognized in 2023 with the American Academy of Nursing’s prestigious Edge Runners award, is known for its innovation and compassion. Its signature MCC program features nurses who travel in branded vehicles to serve as personal healthcare champions, answering questions, facilitating appointments, assisting with second opinions and test results, handling insurance issues, and ensuring that every patient feels seen, heard, and supported.
USW Local 10-00086 joins a growing list of respected unions served by Guardian Nurses.
To learn more about Guardian Nurses and its Mobile Care Coordinator® services, visit www.guardiannurses.com.