UCSF Health Stands Strong: How We’re Supporting Patients and the Community Amid the Strike

UC San Francisco is facing potential strikes from two labor unions: the University Professional and Technical Employees (UPTE) and the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees (AFSCME). AFSCME plans to strike for two days on February 26 and 27, while UPTE will strike for three days from February 26 to 28.

UCSF Health is preparing to keep regular operations running, including emergency care. They hope to maintain most scheduled appointments and surgeries, bringing in qualified replacement staff to help minimize disruptions. However, some procedures might still need to be rescheduled. If an appointment is impacted, patients will be contacted directly, and rescheduling will be prioritized.

The health system is also planning to deal with potential interruptions in dental clinics, as well as in research, education, and transportation services.

These unions represent about 9,600 employees across UCSF and its affiliated sites, though it is unclear how many will participate in the strike. UPTE includes approximately 4,000 employees in various roles, such as pharmacists and case managers. On the other hand, AFSCME represents around 5,700 employees, including phlebotomists, respiratory therapists, and custodians.

In a letter to the community, UCSF Chancellor Sam Hawgood and UCSF Health Chief Executive Officer Suresh Gunasekaran emphasized their respect for employees’ rights to express themselves and for those who choose to work during this period.

UPTE and AFSCME plan to strike across UC campuses statewide. The UC Office of the President is actively negotiating with the unions to resolve the situation. For more on these labor negotiations, visit the UC’s active negotiations page.

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