• Joseph Maxwell Hendrix, Alyssa M Burgart, E Brooke Baker, Richard L Wolman, and Joseph F Kras.
• From the Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Management, University of Texas Southwestern, Dallas, Texas.
• Anesth. Analg. 2024 Aug 1; 139 (2): 432438432-438.

AbstractPhysician unionization is gaining traction in the United States, with <10% of practicing physicians now members, up from historically weak support. Factors that drive interest in unions include a decreased number of independent practitioners, an increase in workloads, and the erosion of autonomy. Approximately 56% of anesthesiologists are considered employees and may be eligible for union membership. Physician unions may provide higher wages, better working conditions, and legal protection. However, they also raise concerns about patient care and professionalism. This article discusses the legal and regulatory framework governing the unionization of physicians, benefits, challenges, and potential future developments. Continued analysis and debate are necessary to determine the optimal role of physician unions in the health care industry.Copyright © 2023 The Author(s). Published by Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. on behalf of the International Anesthesia Research Society.

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