The Oregon Federation of Nurses and Health Professionals (OFNHP) submitted a 10-day strike notice to Kaiser Permanente Thursday. The workers say the primary issue blocking contract negotiations is adequate staffing.
The Oregon Nurses Association has announced it stands in solidarity with the more than 3,400 nurses and other health care professionals represented. ONA’s Kevin Mealy said, “It’s come to this because Kaiser is offering sub standard care. Safe staffing has been cut to the bone and OFNHP nurses are fighting for better patient care and a fair contract.”
Kaiser Permanente has issued a statement saying they’re trying to address the increasingly unaffordable cost of health care. The company also stated that wages and benefits account for half of their operational costs.
Mealy said there’s still time for Kaiser to address worker concerns. If that doesn’t happen, the strike will begin at 6 a.m. on November 15.
