Kaiser Mental Health Workers Strike: Investigations and Updates

Strike Activities Continue as Investigation into Kaiser Practices Expands

The sixth week of the ongoing strike by mental health workers at Kaiser Permanente began with creative demonstrations, including a humorous "Where’s Waldo/Where’s Kaiser" theme. A notable addition to the San Diego picket line was a cat with a Greg Adams nametag, a playful jab at Kaiser’s CEO.

In a show of support, San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria visited the picket line last Friday, marking his first appearance. Meanwhile, a Telemundo reporter covered the Fontana line, highlighting a Kaiser patient who spoke favorably of the strike's goals. The Anaheim line received backing from the California Alliance for Retired Americans, who promised to disseminate hardship fund details to their members.

State Investigation Accelerated

The California Department of Public Health has expedited an investigation following reports by KPBS concerning Kaiser’s alleged understaffing in hospice services. Inspectors reached Fontana last week and are expected in San Diego soon. This development followed the filing of a complaint related to violations of Medicare regulations.

Concerns Over Appointment Cancellations

A press release today highlighted issues with Kaiser’s procedures for canceling appointments during the strike. The protocols allegedly contradict state law and do not align with the contingency plan submitted to regulators. Key discrepancies include:

• The plan specifies a two-week waitlist for patients, but staff are instructed to extend this to 30 days, contravening state law.
• A risk assessment for each patient is mandated after two weeks, yet internal procedures lack such instructions.
• Clerical staff should perform a "warm transfer" to crisis therapists for further evaluation, a step reportedly omitted in internal directives.

The complaint urges the Department of Managed Health Care to ensure compliance with California laws and safeguard Kaiser enrollees' access to timely behavioral health care. Further details can be accessed through the official document.

Additional Updates

• No picket lines will be held this Thursday or Friday.
• The San Diego Labor Council has contributed $10,000 to the hardship fund.
• Hardship fund applications are due by Friday at 11:59 p.m., with disbursements scheduled for the following Friday. For more information, refer to the official rules and the application form.

Photo Highlights from the Picket Lines

Below is a selection of photos from the picket lines, with more available on NUHW’s social media platforms: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, and TikTok.

The post Kaiser Mental Health Care Strike: Day 35 appeared first on NUHW.

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