Providence Cedars-Sinai Nurses Plan 5-Day Strike

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Registered nurses and licensed medical professionals at Providence Cedars-Sinai Tarzana Medical Center in California are set to begin a five-day strike on February 16th. The strike involves members of Service Employees International Union Local 121RN, which represents over 11,000 healthcare workers in the state. The union says caregivers have raised concerns during contract negotiations about unsafe staffing levels, environmental conditions, and workplace harassment that have not been adequately addressed.

Why it matters

This strike highlights ongoing tensions between healthcare workers and hospital management over issues like staffing, benefits, and workplace conditions. As the COVID-19 pandemic has put significant strain on the healthcare system, these types of labor disputes could become more common as workers advocate for better support and resources.

The details

The hospital, a joint venture between Providence and Cedars-Sinai, says it has bargained in good faith over the past seven months to reach a competitive agreement. However, the union claims Providence has proposed changes to healthcare benefits and retirement contributions, and has reduced support staffing and expanded duties. The hospital says it is prepared to maintain operations during the strike by contracting with an agency to provide qualified nurses and other professionals.

• The strike is set to begin on February 16, 2026.
• Contract negotiations between the union and hospital management have been ongoing since July 2025.

What’s next

The hospital says it is prepared to maintain operations during the strike by contracting with an agency to provide qualified nurses and other professionals.