#United States #Boston #Home Care #MNA #Mass General Brigham

Mass General Brigham Home Care Clinicians Set to Strike for Seven Days

On June 30, 2026, Mass General Brigham (MGB) Home Care clinicians announced their intent to initiate a seven-day strike starting July 8, following unproductive negotiation sessions with MGB's Board of Directors. The Massachusetts Nurses Association (MNA), representing the clinicians, highlights the urgency of the situation as MGB executives have consistently refused to engage in meaningful discussions regarding their contracts, despite multiple attempts over 31 negotiation sessions.

The Clinicians' Stand

Shannon Viera, RN and Chair of the MGB Home Care MNA Bargaining Committee, expressed frustration, stating, "We have shown up... ready and willing to negotiate a fair contract that protects our patients and supports our clinicians. MGB has repeatedly refused to engage with us, which breeds public distrust toward the executives managing our healthcare system."

The decision to strike comes after the clinicians, who are seeking to establish their first union contract since voting to unionize in June 2024, received no movement from MGB during the last negotiation session scheduled before the strike. MGB presented its final proposal, which clinicians argue does not adequately address their needs, particularly concerning wages and work conditions that promote safe patient care.

Negotiation Breakdown

During recent discussions, clinicians presented a comprehensive proposal aimed at creating a foundation for a potential agreement, demonstrating significant movement on key issues. However, MGB dismissed these advancements outright. Clinical staff including registered nurses, occupational therapists, physical therapists, speech-language pathologists, social workers, and dieticians are all impacted by the stagnation in negotiations. They have voiced concerns over working conditions that lead to burnout and diminished quality of care in the midst of rising demand for home care services.

The number of Home Care clinicians authorizing a potential strike stands firmly at 92%. In a climate where MGB reports significant financial growth, topping the scales as the seventh wealthiest healthcare system in the U.S. with nearly $36 billion in assets, the clinicians argue that their demands for reasonable work conditions and competitive wages should not be a point of contention but rather an obligation.

Picketing Locations

The strike will commence on July 8 at MGB Home Care locations, with locations designated for picketing including:

• - 152 Conant St., Suite 300, Beverly, MA 01915
• - Braintree Hill Office Park, 45 Rockdale St, Suite 100, Braintree, MA 02184
• - 70 Everett Ave. Suite 505, Chelsea, MA 02150
• - 95 Wells Avenue, Suite 320, Newton, MA 02459
• - 399 Revolutionary Road, Somerville, MA 02145

The second half of the strike will take place at MGB Headquarters, where picketing efforts are expected to gain traction.

Backdrop of the Strike

MGB Home Care clinicians have expressed growing frustrations over issues such as unreasonable caseload limits, lack of transparency in productivity standards, and insufficient compensation that reflects the significance of home care services. As healthcare demands escalate, retention efforts suffer under current conditions, hence prompting this proactive measure by the workforce. The need for addressing systemic issues affecting patient and clinician safety is paramount, especially when executives are receiving substantial compensation while dismissing clinician welfare.

The current executive pay at MGB reflects significant disparity, with top executives collectively earning nearly $36 million. Notably, CEO Dr. Anne Klibanski alone earned over $8 million in 2024, raising questions about priorities within the healthcare system.

As tensions rise ahead of the planned strike, Home Care clinicians remain committed to advocating for their rights and the well-being of their patients. This event signifies not only a moment for these professionals but acts as a catalyst for ongoing dialogue regarding fair labor practices in the healthcare sector, emphasizing the need for equitable treatment amid financial prosperity.