Medford, Oregon- Providence Health & Services has informed striking nurses represented by the Oregon Nurses Association (ONA) that their healthcare coverage will be discontinued starting February 28 if the strike were to continue into that date. The notification comes after ONA and Providence were unable to come to an agreement regarding a number of issues.
“Those striking caregivers who return to work by Feb. 28 will not see a suspension of their benefits,” Providence stated. The organization also confirmed that affected caregivers would receive information about COBRA coverage options by mail.
Providence and ONA have previously acknowledged that healthcare benefits for striking caregivers would not be maintained indefinitely. Benefits have remained in place through January and February, but the extended length of the strike has led to the decision to end coverage for those who continue to participate in the labor action.
ONA criticized the move, calling it a punitive measure that harms caregivers and their families. “Threatening to strip health insurance from nurses and their families, including children, while delaying and prolonging contract negotiations, is shameful and inexcusable. This callous action underscores Providence’s prioritization of profits over the well-being of caregivers and the patients they serve,” the union stated.
The ongoing labor dispute centers on demands for improved wages, staffing levels, and working conditions. ONA has accused Providence executives of prioritizing financial interests over reaching a fair contract.
Negotiations between Providence and ONA are expected to continue as the February 28 deadline approaches.
Source: ONA / Providence
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