Approximately 4,000 nurses from Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston are preparing to begin an open‑ended strike on Thursday if negotiations with the Massachusetts Nursing Association (MNA) do not produce a new contract.
Union demands focus on wages and staffing
The MNA says its members are seeking a higher wage scale, limits on the use of traveling and temporary nurses, and more affordable health‑insurance options. The union stresses that these changes are needed to protect both nurses and patients.
Hospital response emphasizes safety and continuity
Mass General Brigham (MGB) says patient care remains its highest priority. The system plans to hire temporary nurses—many of whom filled in during the July work stoppage—to cover any gaps. “We are utilizing real‑time safety monitoring and clear escalation pathways for any issues that arise,” said Dr. Paul Biddinger, MGB’s chief preparedness officer.
Karen Fiumara, vice president of patient safety, noted that during the July strike the hospital saw no increase in the number or severity of safety events. She added that the same safety plans will be employed for the potential October strike.
Hospital’s offer and ongoing talks
MGB says its latest proposal includes competitive pay and highlights that its nurses are already among the highest‑paid in the region and the nation. The hospital acknowledges inflation and cost‑of‑living pressures but says compensation decisions must be applied consistently across all roles.
Negotiations have made some progress on workplace‑safety proposals, but no final agreement has been reached. Kelly Morgan, MNA chair and a labor‑and‑delivery nurse at Brigham and Women’s, said the union is ready to resume talks any time before November 12 and hopes MGB will return to the table in good faith.
What patients can do
Patients with concerns are encouraged to contact their provider or the hospital’s Patient and Family Relations department. Both sides remain scheduled to meet at noon Wednesday to continue discussions.
Original reporting: NBC10 Boston — read the source article.
