Kaiser Permanente Strike Looms, Potentially Disrupting Healthcare Access & Workforce Productivity by Jan 26
Executive Brief
A potential strike by Kaiser Permanente healthcare professionals across California and Hawaii starting January 26 will immediately impact patient care and could lead to reduced workforce productivity due to health access issues. Small businesses should prepare for potential employee health disruptions and consider alternative healthcare provisions.
- Healthcare Providers: Anticipate patient redirection and increased demand on non-Kaiser facilities.
- Small Business Operators: Monitor employee health status and consider contingency plans for reduced availability.
- Remote Workers: Secure alternative healthcare options for non-emergency needs and be aware of appointment delays.
- Action: Watch Kaiser's negotiation status and prepare alternative healthcare plans.
The Change
More than 31,000 nurses and health professionals at Kaiser Permanente have delivered a second strike notice, with a potential walkout slated to begin on January 26, 2026. This follows unsuccessful negotiations between Kaiser Permanente and its unionized employees regarding contract terms. The affected workers include nurses, technicians, and other healthcare professionals across numerous facilities in California and Hawaii.
If a contract is not reached by the deadline, the strike action will significantly disrupt services for Kaiser Permanente's extensive patient base. This includes scheduled appointments, surgeries, emergency care, and ongoing treatment plans, creating immediate access challenges for hundreds of thousands of individuals.
Who's Affected
Healthcare Providers (Private Practices, Clinics, Telehealth)
Facilities not affiliated with Kaiser Permanente, including private practices, independent clinics, and telehealth providers, should anticipate a surge in patient demand. Many Kaiser patients may seek care elsewhere for non-emergency services during the strike, potentially overwhelming existing appointment capacities. This could lead to longer wait times for all patients and a strain on resources for non-Kaiser providers. Licensing and credentialing for any temporary staff brought in to manage increased patient loads would need careful review.
Small Business Operators (Restaurants, Retail, Services)
For businesses whose employees are Kaiser Permanente health plan members, a strike poses a direct risk to workforce availability and productivity. Employees facing healthcare access disruptions may experience delays in receiving necessary medical attention, leading to increased absenteeism or reduced effectiveness while at work. Businesses should monitor employee health and consider supporting employees in finding alternative care, which might involve out-of-network exceptions or emergency room utilization. This could also indirectly impact operational costs if employees require more frequent time off.
Remote Workers
Remote workers residing in Hawaii and relying on Kaiser Permanente for their healthcare coverage will face the most immediate challenges. Non-emergency appointments, specialist consultations, and even routine check-ups may be postponed indefinitely. This necessitates securing alternative healthcare arrangements, potentially involving out-of-network providers or emergency services, which could incur significant out-of-pocket expenses if not adequately covered by their insurance or employer.
Second-Order Effects
A sustained strike at Kaiser Permanente could create significant ripple effects across Hawaii's healthcare ecosystem. Increased patient volume at non-Kaiser facilities may delay care for their existing patient base, potentially impacting workforce health in sectors reliant on timely medical attention. Smaller, independent clinics might struggle with the influx of new patients due to capacity limitations, while larger hospital systems could face resource strain. If the strike extends, it could strain the overall health of Hawaii's workforce, subtly impacting productivity across various industries over the short to medium term as individuals defer care.
What to Do
Given the potential for a strike beginning January 26, 2026, the following actions are recommended:
Healthcare Providers:
Monitor news regarding the status of Kaiser Permanente negotiations closely. Prepare internal staffing and scheduling to accommodate potential increases in patient inquiries and appointment requests from Kaiser members seeking non-emergency care. Review referral agreements and establish clear communication protocols for inter-facility transfers if necessary.
Small Business Operators:
Communicate with employees about the potential strike and encourage them to explore alternative healthcare options for any immediate or upcoming needs. Advise employees on how to seek care at non-Kaiser facilities or ERs and provide information on their current health plan's out-of-network coverage policies. Consider flexibility in work schedules for employees experiencing significant health-related disruptions.
Remote Workers:
If you are a Kaiser Permanente member, proactively contact your primary care physician or specialist to understand how the potential strike will affect scheduled appointments. Research and identify alternative healthcare providers or facilities in your area that can manage your health needs during the strike period. Familiarize yourself with your health plan's emergency care protocols and out-of-network coverage details.
Action Details: Watch Kaiser Permanente's official communication channels and union statements for negotiation updates daily. If a strike is confirmed or appears imminent, immediately implement contingency plans for healthcare access, especially for chronic conditions or upcoming procedures. For employers, brief HR and management on potential employee impacts and available guidance.
