Unionized Physician Panel Summary

On May 1, MGB physicians joined a webinar panel of unionized doctors from around the country to hear firsthand how forming a union has impacted their workplaces, patient care, and professional autonomy. The event brought together doctors from ChristianaCare, Allina Health, Cambridge Health Alliance, NYC Health + Hospitals, and PeaceHealth Sacred Heart—who’ve successfully organized and are now bargaining or working under a union contract.

Why They Unionized
Panelists described the decision to unionize as a response to systemic issues: unsafe staffing, lack of input into decision-making, burnout/moral injury, and corporate priorities that conflicted with patient care. Many noted that forming a union gave them a structured and legally protected way to advocate for themselves and their patients.

Representation and Power
One of the top questions raised was: “How does union representation actually work?” Panelists explained that elected physician peers work alongside professional union staff and attorneys to bring issues to management. Panelists stressed that in their experience, concerns raised in a particular specialty or location are not lost—they’re documented, prioritized, and addressed collectively, often through a committee or grievance process backed by a contract. As Dr. David Schwartz put it, “Before, we asked nicely. Now we have a legally enforceable process.”

Management Relationships & Culture
Attendees asked if unionizing might damage strong relationships with leadership. In reality, panelists reported the opposite: clearer boundaries and roles improved communication. As one doctor shared, their clinic leader actually encouraged them to fight for union improvements, knowing that better contracts benefit everyone.

Addressing the “Scary Stuff”
Attendees asked the tough questions—and panelists answered them honestly:

• Retaliation? “The best protection is unity. If they retaliate against one, they’re up against all of us.” Legal protections exist, and solidarity strengthens enforcement.

• Strikes? Most union groups have not had to strike—but having the legal right to do so gives leverage. The mere threat, backed by unity, often drives results.

• Dues? Doctors Council dues (around $1,180/year for most doctors) don’t begin until a contract is ratified—and groups will not vote yes unless it’s worth it. In nearly every case, raises and benefits exceeded the cost of dues.

• Flexibility? Contracts can—and should—protect flexibility. Panelists described bargaining not as a one-size-fits-all process but as tailored to their clinical and academic needs.

Wins at the Table
Unionized physicians shared concrete improvements they’ve bargained for, including:

• Salary increases and bonuses

• Better control over scheduling

• Just cause protections (job security)

• Grievance procedures

• Improvements to staffing and patient safety

• Language over physical safety

• Autonomy in practice

These wins came not all at once but through collective organizing and smart, incremental bargaining.

Impact on Patient Care
The panelists emphasized that unionizing has improved—not hindered—their ability to care for patients. With union contracts, they’ve secured better staffing, fought back against harmful policies both within and outside of negotiations, and finally had a voice in decisions that affect care delivery.

Closing Message
When asked why they took the time to speak with MGB doctors, Dr. Howard Goldstein said: “Physicians helped me understand the power of a union when I was undecided. Now I want to do the same for others.”

Their message was clear: unionizing isn’t easy—but it’s worth it. And no one does it alone.