In response to the supervisors’ resolution, Golomb expressed her gratitude and relief. She mentioned feeling heartened by the support and understanding shown by the lawmakers. Golomb emphasized the need for respect and dignity from Sutter Health, especially in contract negotiations. She highlighted the importance of including language in the contract regarding 24/7 security in the inpatient psych unit, a measure that Sutter Health has continuously refused to implement.
Golomb and her resident colleagues have been in the process of unionizing and negotiating a first contract with the hospital system since announcing their plans in January. They have been advocating for increased safety measures, specifically pushing for round-the-clock security in the inpatient psych unit and intensive care unit. Sutter Health has stated its commitment to providing a fair contract and ensuring safe work environments for its employees.
To address safety concerns, Sutter Health has invested nearly $40 million in enhancing security measures, particularly in the unit where Golomb was attacked. Measures include the installation of cameras, panic buttons, duress alarms, and secured doors. Additionally, a security officer now provides daytime coverage in the unit to improve safety and security for staff and patients.
Board of Supervisors President Aaron Peskin stated that he co-sponsored legislation aimed at increasing essential health care workers within San Francisco’s city limits. However, Peskin emphasized that this expansion cannot happen if healthcare workers are not safe on the job site. He stressed that it is crucial to ensure that healthcare workers feel protected while they carry out their duties of keeping people healthy and safe from illness or injury.
In response to Peskin’s comments, Golomb expressed gratitude towards him for his efforts to promote transparency and accountability within San Francisco’s healthcare system.
Golomb emphasized that she hopes OSHA enforcement will take an active role in reporting and tracking assaults within hospitals to ensure that all healthcare workers feel safe on their jobsites.
As negotiations continue between Golomb and Sutter Health representatives regarding a first contract, it remains clear that safety is paramount for both parties involved.
