The Union of American Physicians and Dentists agreed on a deal with Los Angeles County-owned hospitals to get cost-of-living increases and bonuses for unionized physicians and dentists, according to a June 12 report by the Los Angeles Times.
Physicians and dentists who are part of the union and work at hospital or health facilities run by Los Angeles County will get cost-of-living increases to match what other county employees receive, with some positions earning additional increases.
A large part of the dispute between the two sides was centered around "Megaflex", a benefits package that the county provides to more than 14,000 employees to buy benefits and keep the unspent funds as income.
In addition, the county will improve benefits by Jan. 1, 2026, including a 401(k) plan and short-term disability benefits.
The deal also includes an annual bonus of $14,000 for employees who are not covered by Megaflex and potential loyalty bonuses for physicians who remain employed by the county after completing residency.
The agreement, which was ratified by union members in May, will end the threat of a strike after more than two years of negotiations. Physicians and dentists planned to go on strike in December, which was put on hold, the release said.