Nov 10, 2021
Kaiser Permanente has received strike notices from some of their labor unions. A strike notice does not necessarily mean a strike will happen, but if strikes do take place, they are expected to begin November 15.
Kaiser continues to bargain in good faith, and hope that by continuing to negotiate, they will reach an agreement and avoid any potential strikes.
Caring for members is Kaiser's top priority
Kaiser want to reassure you that their top priority remains the continued delivery of high-quality health care and services for their members and patients. They have contingency plans in place so members can continue to receive safe, high-quality care should a strike occur. They have established plans to ensure continuity of care which includes sourcing temporary staff and redeploying highly trained and experienced Kaiser Permanente clinical staff, managers, physicians, and administrative staff in accordance with their licensing and qualifications, and the use of outside resources, including community hospitals and retail pharmacies.
Appointment and facility changes
Currently, facilities are operating normally. Kaiser doctors will not participate in any strike, so in most cases they will be available. In preparation for a strike, Kaiser has shifted some appointments to virtual care, including phone visits, video visits, and e-chat, if appropriate. They have also rescheduled some appointments, elective surgeries and procedures and may need to close certain facilities if a strike occurs. They are contacting impacted members directly – by text, phone call or kp.org email – and will share updates on kp.org.
While Kaiser intends to keep all hospitals, Emergency Departments, and Urgent Care departments open throughout the duration of any union disruption, Kaiser Permanente has taken the precaution of establishing agreements with community hospitals and other needed clinical providers to help with patient needs.
Pharmacy changes
In the event of a strike, if members need a new or urgent prescription, they will be directed to a local retail pharmacy that can serve them. Members can also sign up for convenient mail order delivery service on kp.org/pharmacy or on the Kaiser Permanente app and receive their medications delivered to their door at no extra cost.
Kaiser's commitment to the negotiation process
Kaiser Permanente continues to engage in negotiations to reach a mutually beneficial agreement with their unions. Kaiser Permanente has a long and productive history with organized labor, and are proud to employ more union-represented employees than any other health care organization in the country.
For more information about Kaiser Permanente labor relations and bargaining, visit kp.org/labor.
