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After months of organizing, negotiating and standing together in solidarity, the University of Maryland Resident and Fellow Alliance approved its first contract with the University of Maryland Medical Center in Baltimore. The residents and fellows at UMMC voted to unionize in June 2024.
This historic deal will improve the lives of more than 900 residents and fellow physicians represented by UMRFA. The members are dedicated to the improvement of working conditions and patient outcomes and delivering the best possible healthcare to communities in and around Baltimore.
“Being part of this first contract victory has been one of the most meaningful experiences of my career,” says Dr. Lo Tamburro, bargaining committee chair. “It shows the power of grassroots organizing and the strength of our solidarity. This win secures the improved wages, benefits, and protections we need to sustain ourselves and care for Baltimore better than ever.”
The residents and fellows say the agreement brings UMMC closer in line with other residency programs in Baltimore, which will help to attract and retain top applicants to UMMC and set a new standard for healthcare in Baltimore.
“I’m so proud of our union for consistently showing up to win this first contract,” says Dr. Annie Cohen, a member of the interim governance committee. “Our contract wins will help me show up as a better doctor for my patients and colleagues. Our union members work so hard and give so much to this community—it’s about time our contract reflects that.”
Highlights of the three-year contract include compensation increases with retroactive pay; due process and binding arbitration on nonacademic grievances; an additional week of vacation; increased educational stipends; and extra funding assistance for parking, meals and transportation.
[Adrienne Coles]