Resident physicians at the University at Buffalo (UB), represented by the Union of American Physicians and Dentists (UAPD), will hold a press conference on Wednesday, February 21, 2024, at 2 p.m. at the Wyndham Garden Buffalo Downtown (2nd floor conference room) to alert the community about UB and area hospital’s refusal to negotiate fair wages and benefits for 800+ residents throughout Western New York. UB resident physicians remain the lowest paid in New York State.
After six months of collective bargaining, and at the bottom payscale of residents within New York State, the 831 UB resident physicians still don’t have basic benefits such as hazard pay, retirement benefits, and child care. Resident physicians are working up to 80 hours per week, which means they are paid less than minimum wage.
“As physicians, we’re committed to providing Buffalo with the highest quality of care,” said 2nd-year family medicine resident Dr. Michael O’Sullivan. “However, it’s frustrating when you don’t feel supported by administrators. I don’t feel valued for all of the hours I work and the sacrifices I’ve made to become a doctor to care for the patients of Buffalo. We want to share what is happening with the community.”
Stuart Bussey, M.D., J.D., and UAPD president said, “We’re calling on UB, Kaleida, ECMC, Catholic Health and the Veterans Administration to give residents a salary that’s competitive with other New York residency programs. They deserve salaries and benefits that value their hard work and commitment to the community. By investing in its residents, UB can invest in the future of healthcare in Buffalo. A fair contract isn’t just about resident well-being; it’s about ensuring the best possible care for the community.”