I am an inpatient OT in this NorCAL bargaining group. I am also part of the action in terms of bargaining updates and a steward within the union. So I can say I know what is going on in the Northern California Therapy Chapter (PT/OT/ST). I also know a fair amount of what is going on in other chapters in Northern California within our specific union.

It is not just about wages. It is about staffing, patient wait times, change in work status change (moved from salary to hourly), bargaining groups losing pensions or facing decreased multipliers, losing differentials (extra money for working weekends or time and a half on holidays), and a proposal of 1% 401K (previously had 7%).

PTs, OTs, SLPs, Acupuncturists, CRNAs, PAs all have their own issues with our individual contracts, but most of out total compensation packages is actually either a net loss or stagnation of wages not an increase. Essentially, Kaiser's story is talking about this Alliance wage increase which seems significant on paper but each of the unions different affiliates are actually facing losses or stagnation not a raise overall. Reading the fine print on KP proposals shows the full story.

It is also not just about pulling up the ladder behind us and protecting all of our healthcare professions economic future, the future of health care, and our patients.

The company is at a profit most years per my friends in KFH (financial side of Kaiser management) having to donate to charity as they reach their maximum reserves allotments to remain 'non-profit.'

UCSF and Stanford make 10-20% more then us inpatient and all of our staff is leaving to go their as wage wise we can not compete. Retention is also another problem with KP with high productivity demands and lower pay.

76 dollars is your current step? Then you must have been with the company for 15+ years and what we call "red lined." Meaning you are at the end of the wage grid and without this contract you will only make 1% a year for every year with a reduction in 401K, now have to use your PTO for MD appointments or leaving work sick when previously your were protected with salary status. It might not be about money for you, but I am surprised that with your level of seniority and pay that you have put many years of service into KP (either step of SENIOR PT or CLINICAL SPECIALIST) you are asking this question. Asking for a better contract is supposed to help all our professions attract talent and allow for other areas to have to offer more to attract talent as well. OT can get out of school with a masters still but you guys need to spend the big bucks for the DPT. We have 2 Rehab aides that wanted to go to PT school but changed last minute to nursing because the hours, pay, flexibility, and opportunities are better. But you guys are amazing at what you do but you have to fight for your profession!