House Democrats Urge University Hospitals to Reinstate Doctors Fired Amid Union Effort
COLUMBUS – State Reps. Tristan Rader (D-Lakewood) and Eric Synenberg (D-Beachwood) today sent a letter to University Hospitals expressing serious concern over the reported removal of Dr. Lauren Beene and Dr. Valerie Fouts-Fowler, who were leading efforts to unionize.
“Every worker has the right to organize, including doctors. When University Hospitals punish physicians for talking with colleagues about forming a union, it’s not just wrong, it’s a violation of federal labor law. We will not stand by while healthcare workers are intimidated for asserting their rights,” said Rep. Rader. “Drs. Beene and Fouts-Fowler were advocating for better conditions that benefit patients. University Hospitals must choose transparency over retaliation if they want to maintain the public’s trust.”
“The removal of Drs. Beene and Fouts-Fowler is unfortunate. Punishing these community leaders not only undermines their rights as workers, but jeopardizes the quality of care patients rely on. University Hospitals must respect the right to organize and stand with its doctors to ensure the best outcomes for all,” said Rep. Synenberg. “Protecting doctors means protecting patients. When physicians are supported in their right to unionize and advocate for fair working conditions, it leads to better care, safer hospitals, and healthier communities.”
The letter, signed by 34 Democratic Members of the Ohio House of Representatives, urges University Hospitals to:
- Give full and fair consideration to the employment status and any appropriate non-retaliatory discipline of Drs. Beene and Fouts-Fowler immediately;
- Respect and affirm the legal rights of physicians and healthcare workers to determine if they wish to unionize;
- Foster a transparent, inclusive culture where staff can advocate for themselves and their patients without fear.