Nurse Practitioners Demand Fair Pay Amidst MGB Expansion

Nurse practitioners at Massachusetts General Hospital (MGB) are expressing deep dissatisfaction with their compensation, noting that their hourly wages are nearly equivalent to those of registered nurses with less training. This situation is particularly pronounced as MGB expands its cancer institute, a move that rivals are also undertaking with competitive pay structures. The disparities in pay are leading to challenges in recruiting experienced advanced practice providers (APPs) at MGB's cancer institute.

To address these concerns, a significant portion of MGB's nearly 200 APPs initiated a federal petition in January 2026 to unionize and join the Massachusetts Nurses Association. However, this vote is currently on hold as MGB contests the unionization effort, arguing that nurse practitioners and physician assistants have distinct roles and should not be in the same bargaining unit. This opposition is seen by clinicians as an attempt to diminish their collective bargaining power.

Clinicians report that MGB's approach to unionization efforts has been confrontational, with a pattern of litigious opposition. Despite MGB stating it offers competitive pay and benefits, staff feel their dedication is not adequately recognized. The integration of hospitals under MGB has shifted conditions, prompting these unionization efforts for better pay and more input into the institute's operations. Internal "learning and listening" sessions are underway, but providers feel they are insufficient.