Unity Health Care (UHC) physicians and advanced practice providers, represented by the Union of American Physicians and Dentists, have begun contract negotiations with UHC after unionizing five months ago.
Unity Health Care was founded in 1985 as the Health Care for the Homeless Project. It initially provided primary care to families and individuals experiencing homelessness. Now, it is one of two federally qualified health centers in D.C. providing services to residents in underserved communities through its 20 locations — which include homeless shelters, schools, and the D.C. Jail.
About 85% of Unity’s medical providers voted to unionize in November 2023, citing safety and workload concerns. Through negotiations in the coming months, providers hope to establish protections to improve workplace conditions and better serve patients.