MultiCare healthcare practitioners in Tacoma win their union

Providers at MultiCare Mary Bridge Children’s Hospital and clinics voted overwhelmingly to join UAPD

TACOMA, WA (January 20, 2026) — Nearly 100 providers at MultiCare Mary Bridge Children’s Hospital and clinic locations voted to join the Union of American Physicians and Dentists (UAPD) earlier this month, citing their commitment to improving patient care and creating a sustainable work environment that retains experienced providers.

“Children’s healthcare requires continuity and expertise that comes from providers who’ve been doing this work for years. We’re committed to being here for our patients and their families,” an advanced practice provider said. “With our union, we can work with MultiCare to build a workplace that cares for both its providers and patients.”

MultiCare has significantly expanded it’s footprint in Washington state in recent years, taking over and constructing new emergency departments and clinic facilities in Kitsap, Pierce, and Thurston counties and along Washington’s eastern border. Workers at those facilities have been choosing to organize with healthcare unions, seeking better working conditions — and treatment conditions for patients.

The providers at Mary Bridge join their colleagues at MultiCare Auburn Medical Center and MultiCare Indigo Urgent Care in being represented by the UAPD. 

“Our members at MultiCare want to build their careers here and develop lasting relationships with their patients,” Dr. Stuart Bussey, UAPD President, said. “By forming a union, they’re investing in the future of their patients’ care in their workplace. They’re not leaving the system, they’re staying and making sure they can do their best work.”

Once union election results are certified by the National Labor Relations Board, UAPD reports that providers will move forward with contract negotiations with MultiCare.

The Union of American Physicians and Dentists (UAPD), affiliated with AFSCME and the AFL-CIO, represents more than 7,000 private and public-sector healthcare practitioners coast-to-coast. Learn more at www.uapd.com.