More than 75,000 Kaiser Permanente employees began one of the largest strikes in recent US history, marking a milestone in healthcare labor protests. The strike began in parts of Virginia and the District of Columbia, later spreading to the West Coast, where the majority of the company’s workforce is concentrated.
The Kaiser Permanente Coalition of Unions is leading the demands, demanding pay increases at all levels and protection against outsourcing and subcontracting. Additionally, they oppose unfair labor practices. The coalition had previously warned that this would be “the largest health care worker strike in American history” and threatened more protests in November if unfair practices persist.
Kaiser Permanente, in response, assured that its medical centers would continue operating during the strike, although it warned customers about possible longer wait times. The company has implemented contingency plans to minimize disruptions to healthcare services.
The strike reflects growing tensions in the US healthcare sector, highlighting workers’ concerns about fair working conditions and wages. Meanwhile, unions are maintaining their strong stance, underscoring the importance of employment equity at a critical time for the country’s health care system.