From Evan Bowman, IT Project Coordinator at OHSU and IT Chair of AFSCME Local 328, which represents over 8,000 healthcare workers.
Portland, OR – The House Officers Union (AFSCME Local 4820) at Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) has overwhelmingly voted to ratify their second three-year contract, with 96% of members voting to approve (OHSU Marketing and Communications). After extensive negotiations, the House Officers Union, representing medical residents and fellows at OHSU, has successfully finalized an agreement addressing crucial aspects of working conditions and benefits.
A focal point of the new contract is the enhancement of working conditions for house officers, encompassing workload management, scheduling improvements, and better access to necessary resources. The agreement also emphasizes provisions to elevate patient care by ensuring optimal staffing levels and fostering a healthier work-life balance for medical professionals.
A few highlights from the agreement:
- $1,795 payment to current house officers.
- 15.25% of wage increases represented in this three-year agreement: 6.5% in academic years 2024-2025, 4.5% in 2025-2026 and 4.25% 2026-2027.
- Housing stipend: $3,500 in 2024 and wage-tied increases for years 2025 and 2026.
- Education stipend: $1,000 annual stipend.
- Meal money: A tiered meal money plan ranging from $25 to $375 per month, based on program scheduling.
- Bilingual bonus: $1,000 annually for proficient qualifying house officers.
- Chief Resident Salary Supplement: $125 per month for qualifying duties.
- Insurance: Domestic partners and children up to 26 years old are secured.
- Improved leave: Professional, vacation, sick and bereavement.
- Holidays: Comprehensive plan for fair distribution of scheduled holidays and mechanisms to receive an alternative day off if working on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.
- Representation on the Parking and Transportation Committee.
Dr. Sarah Reynolds, President of the House Officers Union, expressed satisfaction, stating, “This new contract is a testament to the dedication of our members and the administration at OHSU. It not only addresses immediate concerns but also lays the foundation for a more collaborative and supportive work environment.”
OHSU administration has welcomed the resolution, recognizing the pivotal role house officers play in healthcare delivery and education. In a joint statement, OHSU and the House Officers Union affirmed their commitment to maintaining open communication and fostering a partnership prioritizing the well-being of both medical professionals and patients.
The OHSU House Officers Union was formed in 2019 to fight off health insurance take-backs, PTO and union-busting tiered contract language. In the United States, resident unions stretch all the way to back to the Interne Council of Greater New York in 1934. Today, between 15-20% of house staff are members of various unions, including SEIU and AFL-CIO.