"The union is seeking to gain higher wages, address unsafe staffing practices and deteriorating patient care, according to a press release from the union. This story isn't just about numbers it's about patients, burnout, and a health care system at a breaking point, the union said. Kaiser made nearly $13 billion in profit in 2024 and holds $66 billion in reserves, yet refuses to meet reasonable proposals that would stabilize the workforce and improve care."
"Kaiser called the strike unnecessary and disruptive, citing its most recent offer of a 21.5% pay increase, Howland said. Anything beyond 21.5% will require us to further increase rates for our members and customers, at a time when health care costs are increasingly unaffordable and many are having to make the difficult choice to go without coverage, Howland said. We have a responsibility to do the right thing for our employees and our members and customers."
Thousands of Kaiser Permanente healthcare professionals in California walked off the job beginning at 7 a.m. Tuesday, with actions at medical centers in Santa Clara and Oakland, and an expected end at 7 a.m. Sunday. The strike represents the largest action in the union's 50-year history. Negotiations for a new contract ended Oct. 10. The union seeks higher wages, safer staffing practices, and improved patient care. Kaiser states pharmacies and medical offices will remain open, offered a 21.5% pay increase, and warned larger increases could raise member rates. Striking roles include pharmacists, nurses, midwives, physician assistants, and dietitians; related walkouts occurred in Hawaii and Oregon.
Read at www.mercurynews.com
Unable to calculate read time
Collection
[
|
...
]