Health care workers strike at UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital in Oakland due to integration plans

Hundreds of healthcare workers at UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital in Oakland have gone on strike, protesting against union contract cancellations and reductions in take-home pay. Represented by the National Union of Healthcare Workers, approximately 1,300 employees argue that the transition to UC employment jeopardizes their seniority and benefits. Carly Sanders, an occupational therapist at the hospital, expressed frustration over UCSF's unwillingness to negotiate. The union claims that many long-term employees are leaving as a result of these changes, which exacerbate existing staffing shortages. In response, UCSF stated that the integration aims to unify the workforce and improve care quality for Bay Area children.

They denied allegations of union busting and asserted that employees would retain their jobs under the new system. UCSF also indicated that some employees may see changes in take-home pay due to new contributions to health and retirement plans. The strike is open-ended, highlighting the ongoing conflict between hospital management and staff regarding employment conditions.