The largest nurses' strike in New York City's history has begun.

The largest nurses' strike in the city's history has begun in New York City. Negotiations between representatives of five major hospitals and the New York State Nurses' Union (NYSNA) failed to reach an agreement on a new contract by the deadline. CBS tells in more detail.

The New York State Nurses Association reported that nearly 15,000 nurses have left work at five private hospitals. Among them:

• Mount Sinai Hospital;
• Mount Sinai Morningside;
• Mount Sinai West;
• NewYork-Presbyterian in Manhattan;
• Montefiore Einstein in the Bronx.

According to the union, Mount Sinai nurses went on strike at 06:00 a.m. Picketing at other hospitals began an hour later.

State of emergency in the city

New York Governor Kathy Hochul declared a state of emergency ahead of time. Authorities feared the strike could jeopardize critical care for thousands of patients.

Montefiore is preparing for the strike to last several weeks.

According to Montefiore Senior Vice President Joe Solmonese, the union's leadership is pushing for "irresponsible demands" totaling $3.6 billion. Nearly 40% of these demands are for wage increases and proposals that, according to Solmonese, are troubling. Furthermore, they demand that nurses not be fired if they are found under the influence of drugs or alcohol on the job.

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He stressed that the hospital intends to ensure safe and uninterrupted treatment of patients regardless of the duration of the strike.

According to a Mount Sinai spokesperson, the union refused to reconsider the "extreme economic demands." The hospital stated that it is ready to add 1400 skilled and specialized nurses to continue providing patient care.

In a statement, NewYork-Presbyterian stated that despite the union's call for workers to leave, the hospital is focused on patients and their care. Management noted that it is continuing to negotiate a fair contract. The hospital is offering significant wage increases, improved benefits, and measures to ensure safe staffing and a safe workplace. However, the statement emphasized that good-faith negotiations require compromise on both sides.

New York City Mayor Pickets

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani joined protesters outside NewYork-Presbyterian in Washington Heights.

He stated that even during the darkest periods of the city's history, nurses always showed up to work. Their value is non-negotiable. He said they only ask for dignity, respect, and fair pay.

On the eve of the strike, Mamdani published a similar statement in X. He noted that the city is obligated to ensure the continuity of medical care. The mayor called on both sides to return to the negotiating table and negotiate in good faith.

Why did nurses go on strike?

Negotiations continued throughout the weekend, but no agreement was reached.

The union accuses Montefiore, Mount Sinai, and NewYork-Presbyterian of putting profits above patient safety. According to NYSNA, the city's wealthiest hospital systems refuse to compromise on wage increases, safe staffing levels, comprehensive health insurance, pensions, and protections from workplace violence.

New York State Attorney General Letitia James stated that healthcare workers are stretched to the limit. Violence in hospitals is on the rise, so nurses are asking for only basic accommodations.

Voices of nurses

Nurse Cecilia Barreto, picketing outside Mount Sinai West, said the strike was a last resort. She emphasized that many nurses depend on health insurance because they themselves have battled serious illnesses.

NYSNA President Nancy Hagans said that instead of guaranteeing health care for nurses, wealthy hospitals are seeking to cut benefits.

She said this applies to employees who, while caring for New Yorkers, risk their own health.

Montefiore previously called some of the union's demands "irresponsible and ill-considered." Hospitals accused nurses of abandoning patients.

Some regional healthcare facilities have reached an agreement with NYSNA, including all Northwell Health locations in Nassau County. Other hospitals previously withdrew their strike notices.

What the strike means for patients

Last week, Governor Hochul signed executive orders ensuring the presence of state Department of Health staff in affected hospitals for the duration of the strike. This is to ensure patient safety and continuity of care.

Montefiore announced that emergency departments will remain open. Hospital officials assured patients not to delay treatment or reschedule appointments. However, they should monitor direct notifications from their doctors.

The union, among other things, called on patients to continue to seek medical care.

Problems obtaining medications

A video on social media showed a nurse being denied entry into Montefiore Weiler Hospital while trying to fill her prescriptions.

She explained that employees' health insurance is linked to Montefiore. Medications can only be obtained at their pharmacy. The nurse noted that many of her colleagues live in the Bronx, and their families receive medical care at the same hospitals.

The security guard at the hospital explained that the necessary medications should have been obtained in advance, since the strike was known.

A Montefiore spokesman said nurses participating in the strike can request home delivery of prescription medications.

Among other things, it was stated that nurses can attend scheduled medical appointments and visit relatives in the hospital. To do so, they must provide the appropriate documentation.

Hospitals remain open. Medical care will continue to be provided.