PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — Resident physicians and fellows have made history at Rhode Island Hospital by becoming the first doctors to unionize in the Ocean State. As the Providence Journal reports, a secret ballot vote last night passed, 464 to 27. Staff joined the committee of interns and residents, the largest union of its kind in the country, to collectively bargain with Brown University Health. In a statement the union says in part: We’re seeing how doctors and nurses are taking control of the healthcare system in this country back from insurance companies. We’re so excited to bring that energy to Rhode Island. Rhode Island Hospital, when asked to comment on the matter, provided the following statement: Brown University Health is grateful to our residents, interns, and fellows for their important contributions to delivering high-quality care with empathy and kindness. We appreciate all who made their voices heard through this election and look forward to working with CIR in good faith while best serving our patients and communities. Rhode Island Hospital and Brown University Health remain committed to fostering a respectful and collegial working environment for all our employees as we support new generations of physicians to learn and grow. Categories: News, Providence, Rhode Island