NYC Physicians Threaten Strike Over Staffing Shortages and Contract Issues

Nearly 1,000 doctors employed at four NYC Health + Hospitals (NYC H+H) facilities have announced their intent to strike on January 13th unless their demands for a fair contract are met. Represented by the Doctors Council SEIU, the physicians, on Thursday, January 2nd, cited unresolved contract negotiations, understaffing, and inadequate compensation as reasons for the planned walkout.

The strike would impact Jacobi Medical Center, North Central Bronx Hospital, Queens Hospital Center, and South Brooklyn Health. Union members argue that current working conditions are unsustainable, with long hours, high stress, and rising living costs exacerbating burnout. Dr. Joplin Steinweiss, a primary care physician at Jacobi, emphasized, “Without a fair contract, our communities will continue to face a critical shortage of doctors, and patients will ultimately bear the brunt of the system’s failure.”

Negotiations have stalled since the doctors’ previous contract expired in September 2023. The union accuses NYC H+H and its affiliates of refusing to address key issues, such as competitive wages and benefits needed to attract and retain qualified physicians. Amid a national doctor shortage, the public healthcare system struggles to compete with private-sector salaries. Additionally, union representatives highlighted employer-imposed cuts to benefits, including a 20% reduction in sick leave, as detrimental to morale and recruitment.

NYC Health + Hospitals expressed hope for a resolution, stating, “We value physicians who serve patients every day and encourage all parties to work together to prevent a strike and ensure uninterrupted quality care.” However, the union has filed several unfair labor practice complaints with the National Labor Relations Board, alleging bad-faith bargaining and unilateral decision-making by employers.

The potential strike has raised concerns about patient care, as prolonged work stoppages could lead to longer wait times and delays in treatment. Union president Dr. Frances Quee stressed that the decision to strike was not taken lightly, adding, “Our patients deserve the highest quality care, and we need a contract that supports the doctors who provide it.”

The situation underscores the challenges facing public healthcare systems nationwide as hospitals grapple with balancing financial constraints and workforce retention in an increasingly competitive labor market.