California Investigates Kaiser Amid Ongoing Mental Health Strike
Editorial StaffKaiser Permanente Faces Scrutiny Amid Ongoing Strike
As the strike against Kaiser Permanente enters its third week, scrutiny over the healthcare provider's handling of patient care escalates. The California Department of Managed Health Care (DMHC) has initiated an Enforcement Investigation to determine if Kaiser is adhering to state laws during this period.
This investigation grants the DMHC increased access to documents concerning Kaiser's actions amidst the strike. Previously, a similar investigation led to a $200 million Settlement Agreement with Kaiser, following a probe from August 2022 to October 2023.
Media outlets are beginning to highlight concerns about Kaiser's strategy for maintaining behavioral health services during the strike. Recent coverage includes a San Diego Union Tribune article and a piece by KPCC Public Radio/LAist. Both articles question the adequacy of Kaiser's contingency plans.
The LAist article features an interview with Lulu Favela, who gained attention after her video in support of her therapist, Roxana, became viral. Favela expressed, “To be quite honest with you, it took a lot for me to build a relationship and honestly to even start therapy. Especially being Latina, there’s a whole bunch of taboo surrounding it.” She further stated, “It’s not fair to Roxana and it’s not fair to myself either that she can’t do her job because she’s overworked, underpaid and undervalued.”
Changes to Picket Line Schedule
The upcoming week will see adjustments in the picket line schedule. Anaheim will have one less day of picketing, while San Diego and Downey will see an additional day each. Additionally, the Baldwin Park picket line will now occur on Wednesdays instead of Tuesdays. More details can be found on the picket line schedule.
Hardship Fund and Support Resources
Applications are now open for the Hardship Fund, designed to provide additional support to those affected by the strike. Though not a substitute for wages, the fund aims to help members sustain themselves throughout the strike. Detailed rules and the application form are available on the official FAQ and via the application form. Applications are due by Friday at 5 pm for disbursement the following Friday.
Donations to support the fund can be made through the GoFundMe campaign. Additionally, those requiring food assistance can request grocery boxes through this form, or by contacting their organizer.
The Los Angeles Labor Federation, together with Labor Community Services, offers resources for deferring mortgage and utility payments, among other financial aids. For more information, visit the campaign website under “Financial Support Services Research.”
Picket Line Photos and Social Media
A collection of photos from the picket lines, including themed images for Halloween, is available below. Additional images can be viewed on the National Union of Healthcare Workers' social media platforms: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, and TikTok.
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