Kaiser Mental Health Care Strike Intensifies Amid State Scrutiny

October 29, 2024 October 29, 2024

Editorial Staff

Kaiser Mental Health Workers Strike Persists Amid Growing State Scrutiny

The strike led by mental health workers at Kaiser Permanente continued with heightened energy as picket lines began at 8 a.m., allowing participants more rest. At the Los Angeles Medical Center (LAMC), support was bolstered by Congressman Jimmy Gomez and members of Clergy and Laity United for Economic Justice (CLUE).

State officials have intensified their focus on Kaiser, with the organization expected to provide its strike contingency plan today. The Department of Managed Health Care is scheduled to meet with union representatives on Wednesday to discuss reported patient care issues arising during the strike. Workers are encouraged to share further information with their steward or organizer, or via email at research@nuhw.org.

Following discussions with union officials, state representatives plan to meet with Kaiser officials in Southern California to assess whether the healthcare provider is meeting its legal obligations to patients during the strike.

Efforts continue to reach out to patients, urging them not to cancel appointments and to notify the Research Department about any cancellations or delays. The strike has garnered support from peers, with messages like one from Ari Neubauer expressing solidarity: “There are so many of us fellow therapists out here wishing you and everyone striking well-being and success. I also donated to the support fund. Thank you for everything you’re doing. The system has to change.”

Linda Cortes recently shared her reasons for participating in the strike on the picket line.

Resources and Upcoming Events

More information about Hardship Funds is available on the campaign resources page. In a bid to unite strikers, a Halloween Day of Action is planned in West L.A., and participants are encouraged to register here for shuttle services from various picket locations.

Strike Communications and Visual Updates

Going forward, strike updates will be issued thrice weekly—on Mondays, Fridays, and on the day of a designated special action. A visual gallery capturing moments from the LAMC and Anaheim picket lines is available. Participants can submit their photos to photos@nuhw.org. For more visuals, visit NUHW’s Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, and TikTok channels.