About 268 primary care physicians, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants employed by Banner Medical Group in the Phoenix area are currently casting ballots to determine whether to join a labor union. The vote is being conducted under the representation of the Union of American Physicians and Dentists (UAPD).
If the effort succeeds, it would mark the first time physicians have formed a union within Arizona. Sebastian Gomez, the lead campaign organizer, stated that at least one-third of the affected employees, roughly 80 individuals, had already signed authorization cards to initiate the process.
Providers supporting the union cite excessive workloads and burnout as primary drivers for the organizing effort. Dr. Justin Watkins, a Gilbert-based primary care physician involved in the initial push about 18 months ago, described feeling taken advantage of and burning out rapidly due to high patient volumes. He noted that appointment schedules are extending four months into the future.
Supporters argue that non-clinical executives are making decisions regarding healthcare delivery without input from frontline workers. They are seeking limits on patient numbers, improved clinical support, and protections against retaliation by leadership. Gomez emphasized that while only a small group has publicly led the movement, there is significant concern among staff about potential repercussions.
Banner Health officials have discouraged the unionization drive, stating in a company statement that the effort reflects the concerns of a few individuals rather than the broader workforce. The health system urged employees to vote no to maintain unity as one team. The company did not respond directly to specific questions regarding the campaign.
In its statement, Banner Health highlighted an 87% employee retention rate, claiming it outperforms industry standards. Union organizers dispute this statistic, arguing it combines primary care staff with all other employees and does not accurately reflect the conditions faced by physicians in the Phoenix area.
