Hospital Workers Strike At Sutter Santa Rosa Health

SANTA ROSA, CA — Lab scientists and other health care workers at Sutter Health Santa Rosa Hospital went on strike Monday, alleging that the health care nonprofit needs to improve working conditions.

Workers represented by the International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers Local 21 argued that Sutter has objected to their requests for higher wages during contract negotiations.

With more than 75 percent of workers facing a wage freeze as negotiations drag on after the union's contract expired in July 2021, according to the union, the hospital could become less competitive to prospective hires and could prompt senior staff members to quit.

The union includes hospital workers like lab scientists, social workers, physical therapists, occupational therapists, dietitians and pharmacists.

"Without dedicated lab scientists, COVID test results could be delayed," the unions said in a statement. "Vulnerable patients need access to social workers, physical therapists, and other professionals who know their histories and have experience treating them."

A Sutter Health spokesperson suggested in a statement that union officials have failed to negotiate in good faith and that previous contract offers have demonstrated Sutter's effort to "value and invest in our caregivers."

"We are hopeful the union will see the value of returning to the table and working together to reach an agreement that recognizes these staff for their important work while maintaining the strength and stability of the hospital and its patients who depend upon us," the spokesperson said.

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