Kaiser Mental Health Workers Continue Strike Amid New Complaints

November 19, 2024 November 19, 2024

Editorial Staff

Strike Intensifies as Kaiser Workers Show Resolve

Entering the fifth week of the strike, new participants have joined the picket lines in Los Angeles, following recent disruptions involving Kaiser and law enforcement preventing food box distributions last Friday.

In Anaheim, two medical social workers, who provide in-home care, have made the difficult decision to join the strike. Initially hesitant due to financial concerns, they ultimately chose to stand alongside their colleagues after enduring four weeks of issues within Kaiser facilities.

Los Angeles saw a particularly robust turnout with more demonstrators than picket signs available, marching in front of the hospital entrance. This action was a direct response to the halting of food distributions by Kaiser the previous week.

Despite these challenges, over 500 pounds of fresh produce were successfully distributed on Friday. Workers from Los Angeles, Downey, and Bakersfield collected food boxes from the Glendale office, ensuring nothing went to waste.

Allegations Against Kaiser Under Scrutiny

Reports from patients and staff continue to surface, prompting concerns about Kaiser’s practices during the strike. Last Friday, a formal complaint was filed, urging an investigation into possible violations of federal Medicare regulations. The complaint highlights severe understaffing issues in San Diego and Fontana, with allegations that temporary workers did not adequately address patient pain concerns.

Planned Activities

Wednesday: Strikers will receive new t-shirts, offering an opportunity to have their regular NUHW shirts cleaned.

Thursday: Simultaneous rallies are scheduled for 12 p.m. outside Kaiser headquarters in Pasadena and Oakland. While Southern California workers gather at 393 E. Walnut Street in Pasadena, Northern California colleagues will rally in Oakland, advocating for fair contracts in Southern California.

Support Resources

The deadline for hardship fund applications is now set for Fridays at 11:59 p.m., with funds disbursed the following Friday. For more details, refer to the official rules and the application form. These funds are categorized as nontaxable income and can be considered gifts.