More than 16,000 nurses in New York City are poised to initiate a significant strike beginning Monday morning due to unresolved contract negotiations with hospital management. This situation marks one of the largest nurses’ strikes in the city’s history and comes after a breakdown in talks between the New York State Nursing Association (NYSNA), which represents the nurses, and major private hospitals.
The union’s president, Nancy Hagans, expressed frustration over hospital executives prioritizing profits over patient and nurse safety. She emphasized the critical issues at stake, stating, “Unfortunately, greedy hospital executives have decided to put profits above safe patient care and force nurses out on strike when we would rather be at the bedsides of our patients.” The nurses are demanding improved pay, safe staffing levels, comprehensive health care coverage, pensions, and protections against workplace violence.
A strike was set to commence at 6 a.m. ET at several Mount Sinai Hospital locations and Montefiore and NewYork-Presbyterian facilities. A press conference is scheduled at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital at 10 a.m. to provide updates on the situation.
In anticipation of potential disruptions, New York Governor Kathy Hochul declared a state of emergency, urging both sides to come to an agreement. She warned that a strike could jeopardize the health of thousands of patients across the city. “I’m strongly encouraging everyone to stay at the table, both sides, management and the nurses, until this is resolved,” Hochul remarked.
The hospitals involved, including Mount Sinai, Montefiore, and NewYork-Presbyterian—all of which are among the wealthiest in the region—have indicated they are prepared to maintain care through any interruptions caused by a strike. Officials reassured patients that they should not postpone seeking emergency medical help even if a strike were to occur.
Despite agreements reached by the NYSNA with other healthcare systems in the area, the discussions with the five major hospitals remain stagnant. The nurses’ previous contract expired at the end of December and was finalized only after a three-day strike earlier this year.
The mounting tensions include recent incidents that highlight concerns over workplace safety, such as a recent shooting at a Brooklyn hospital involving law enforcement. This incident only underscores the urgency for improved conditions and security for healthcare workers.
Amid these challenges, the NYSNA remains resolute in its commitment to better healthcare for both nurses and patients. They have made it clear that individuals requiring medical attention should seek care without delay, emphasizing their goal of improving the circumstances that have led to this strike action. The outcome of the negotiations will significantly impact the state of healthcare in New York City and the welfare of its nurses.