Kaiser Permanente Workers in Oregon and Washington Authorize Strike

Kaiser Permanente employees across Southwest Washington and Oregon have voted to authorize a strike, a decision made public on September 29, 2023. The Oregon Federation of Nurses and Health Professionals, AFT Local 5017, which represents approximately 3,700 workers including registered nurses and lab professionals, conducted the vote as part of ongoing contract negotiations.

The strike authorization vote, which began on September 15, concluded with a significant turnout. Of the union members who participated, a remarkable 97 percent voted in favor of the strike, as reported by the union. The current contract is set to expire on September 30, 2023, and union leaders indicated that they would provide Kaiser with a 10-day notice before any strike action is taken.

Concerns Over Patient Care and Working Conditions

The union has raised critical concerns regarding work conditions, wages, and the overall future of patient care. According to Sarina Roher, President of the Oregon Federation of Nurses and Health Professionals, cutting costs for frontline care is detrimental to patient welfare. “Our choice is for Kaiser to return to a collaborative model that prioritizes high-quality workplace conditions and decisions that put patients first,” Roher stated in a news release.

If the strike occurs, around 300 employees across seven Kaiser Permanente clinics in Clark County will participate. Additional strikes are planned at facilities throughout Oregon, including the Westside Medical Center and Sunnyside Medical Center. The union’s demands focus on better wages, improved working conditions, and the future of healthcare delivery.

Kaiser Permanente has responded to the union’s actions, emphasizing its commitment to negotiate in good faith since May. As of September 12, the organization offered wage increases totaling 20 percent over the four-year contract period, including an increase in the first year. Kaiser also highlighted enhancements to benefits and retirement programs designed to support employee growth.

Potential for a Larger Labor Movement

The strike authorization in Southwest Washington may have broader implications. Union representatives indicate that workers could be joined by tens of thousands of healthcare professionals across eight states, potentially leading to one of the largest labor strikes in 2025. “We will continue to bargain in good faith, hoping to reach a fair agreement that respects healthcare workers and benefits our patients,” Roher added.

Kaiser Permanente has expressed disappointment over the union’s decision to authorize a strike, asserting that such actions could disrupt care for members and patients while negotiations are ongoing. In its statement, the organization maintained that it meets and often exceeds mandated nurse-to-patient ratios and staffing standards, countering allegations regarding staffing and care quality.

As the situation develops, all eyes will be on the negotiation table as both sides work towards a resolution that addresses the concerns of healthcare workers while ensuring quality care for patients.