Providence Medford Responds to Planned Oregon Nurse Association Strike

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Medford, Oregon- Providence Medford Medical Center is preparing for a work stoppage following a notice from the Oregon Nurses Association (ONA) detailing plans for strikes at all eight Providence Oregon hospitals, including Medford. The strikes are scheduled to begin at 6 a.m. on Friday, January 10.

Chris Pizzi, Chief Executive of Providence Medford, issued a statement on Monday, December 30, expressing disappointment with the union’s decision to strike, describing it as a hindrance to resolving the ongoing contract negotiations.

“Since late summer, ONA has been forecasting and planning for this large strike in January. It takes two sides to reach agreements,” Pizzi said.

According to Pizzi, Providence Medford has offered a proposal that includes a double-digit pay increase for nurses, averaging $20,000 for full-time employees in the first year, along with up to $5,000 in ratification bonuses. The proposal also addresses staffing concerns by incorporating acuity-based staffing provisions in addition to compliance with Oregon’s staffing laws.

Despite these offers, Pizzi noted that the union has not provided a counterproposal and has instead chosen to strike. “Union leaders have prioritized striking and ‘increased power’ over timely and beneficial resolutions,” he added.

Providence Medford is taking measures to mitigate the impact of the strike, including securing replacement workers and ensuring patient care continuity. The hospital’s leadership has stated that bargaining will be paused during the work stoppage to focus on maintaining healthcare services for the community.

Providence states that represented caregivers who choose not to participate in the strike will be welcomed to work during this period.

The ONA has not publicly commented on Pizzi’s statement at this time. The planned strike marks a significant development in labor negotiations affecting healthcare services across the state.

Further updates will follow as the situation develops.