Mathew Sorensen, MD, MS, FACS, presented “Impact of Resident Unionization” during the 28th Annual Innovations in Urologic Practice conference on September 22, 2024, in Denver, Colorado.
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How to cite: Sorensen, Matthew. “Impact of Resident Unionization.” September 22, 2024. Accessed Dec 2024. https://grandroundsinurology.com/impact-of-resident-unionization/
Impact of Resident Unionization – Summary
Mathew Sorensen, MD, MS, FACS, explores the increasing trend of resident unionization in the United States, providing a comprehensive analysis of its growth, drivers, and impact on graduate medical education.
In this 23-minute presentation, Sorensen explains that unionization has become a prominent issue, with approximately 20% of US medical residents now part of unions. The drivers for unionization extend beyond salary, encompassing benefits such as fertility services, paid parental leave, wellness funds, and campus housing. He cites examples like UCLA, where non-salary demands formed a significant part of the unionization efforts. Established organizations like the Committee of Interns and Residents (CIR) are pivotal in guiding programs through this process, leveraging their extensive experience.
Sorensen shares personal experience at the University of Washington. He acknowledges animosity can arise during contract years, with threats of strikes and coordinated actions among residents creating tension. He concludes that while unionization has led to notable improvements in resident compensation and benefits, it also introduces complexities in program management and expansion, necessitating careful navigation of collective bargaining dynamics.
About The 28th Annual Innovations in Urologic Practice:
Presented by co-chairs Mohit Khera, MD, MBA, MPH, and Michael Coburn, MD, FACS, the Innovations in Urologic Practice conference provides a detailed review and commentary on multiple genitourinary and urologic diseases. Among the featured oncological topics are bladder cancer and immunotherapies, as well as upper tract cancer management, prostate cancer, including state-of-the-art imaging, focal therapy, and MRI. Experts also discuss new tools and techniques for nephrectomy and treating advanced renal cell carcinoma. In terms of general urological approaches, the conference also includes pelvic reconstruction and trauma; men’s health topics like male infertility, andrology, and sexual dysfunction; OAB and voiding dysfunctions; and ways to diagnose and treat infections in the urology patient.
For further educational activities from this conference, visit our collection page.