CIR members at Sutter Santa Rosa always understood their contract fight to be as much about patient care as winning better support for physicians. 

“We want to, we need to, show up to give 100% to our patients but it’s a challenge when we’re overworked and underpaid, juggling 300,000 dollars in medical debt and living paycheck to paycheck often working over 80 hours a week,” said Dr. Paul Nguyen at CIR’s unity break in November. 

Caring for a diverse, largely working class patient population in Sonoma County, California, the Sutter Santa Rosa doctors went into negotiations determined to win support to help them focus on delivering the best treatment to patients facing high barriers to healthcare access. Their core demands included pay and benefits that would ease their financial stress so they can show up rested for their community. 

“This isn’t just about our contract – it’s about whether Sutter will invest in quality care for Santa Rosa and greater Northern California, or continue policies that strain doctors and shortchange patients,” said Dr. Prasanna Vankina.

While the fight came with some disappointing losses–including the hospital’s disturbing revocation of bilingual pay–physicians did make significant strides overall, while holding onto additional pay for sick coverage. Following a series of escalating actions, culminating in a unity break, Sutter Santa Rosa CIR members ultimately won a $10,000 housing stipend, crucial across-the-board pay increases, a $2500 educational fund, and more!