Nearly 700 resident physicians and fellows at Rhode Island Hospital have ratified their first union contract, marking a significant milestone for the group represented by the Committee of Interns and Residents (CIR/SEIU). The agreement, approved by 95% of voting members, includes a 12% base pay increase, reduced health insurance premiums, enhanced retirement benefits with a 401(k) match up to 6%, and improved workplace accommodations for lactating mothers. The contract, effective through June 30, 2029, follows extensive negotiations that began in 2024 after the residents voted to unionize in early 2025—the first such unionization among resident physicians in Rhode Island.

The successful bargaining effort came after months of organizing, including rallies and petitions highlighting concerns over low wages relative to workload and regional living costs. Resident Dr. Samantha Palacios expressed relief that the process avoided a strike and emphasized the essential role residents play in hospital operations. Rhode Island Hospital praised the collaborative negotiations and reaffirmed its commitment to high-quality care and medical education. Meanwhile, unionization efforts continue at three other Rhode Island hospitals within the Care New England network.