Providence nurses, and some doctors, walk out as open-ended strike begins

Nearly 5,000 nurses, over 100 physicians, and advanced practitioners at Providence Oregon began striking Friday, impacting all eight state hospitals and six women’s clinics. Striking workers cite systemic understaffing, safety concerns, and job security fears due to Providence’s operational changes and private equity involvement.

The Oregon Nurses Association (ONA) has accused Providence of refusing to bargain effectively, leading to the strike after over a year of stalled negotiations. Providence countered, claiming it offered nurses a 20% pay increase and accused the union of stalling.

Governor Tina Kotek urged all parties to return to the table, emphasizing the disruption to patient care. Providence has hired 2,000 temporary nurses but struggled to find replacement physicians, consolidating women’s clinic services and reducing capacity.

Providence leadership acknowledged challenges but expressed commitment to resuming negotiations once operations stabilise.

Full article here.