More than 4,500 nurses and clinicians represented by the Massachusetts Nurses Association (MNA) are scheduled to strike July 8 at two Mass General Brigham (MGB) bargaining units, marking what the union says would be the largest nurse and healthcare professional strike in Massachusetts history.

The planned work stoppages involve more than 4,000 registered nurses at Brigham and Women's Hospital and about 450 clinicians employed by MGB Home Care. The union said it delivered the required 10-day strike notices June 26 after months of contract negotiations.

Brigham nurses plan a one-day strike beginning at 7 a.m. July 8 and ending at 6:59 a.m. July 9. The MNA said MGB intends to lock out striking nurses for four additional days following the walkout. The hospital system had not responded publicly within the press release.
MGB Home Care clinicians, who voted to unionize in 2024 and are negotiating their first contract, plan a seven-day strike beginning at 8 a.m. July 8. The bargaining unit includes registered nurses, physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech-language pathologists, social workers and dietitians.

According to the union, Brigham nurses are seeking wage increases, greater health insurance choice, limits on the use of travel nurses and measures aimed at improving recruitment and retention. They also cited concerns about recent service reductions, including the closure of the Weiner Center and the elimination of the hospital's burn unit.

Home care clinicians are seeking caseload limits, productivity standards and wage increases, saying current working conditions contribute to burnout and staff turnover.

The union also pointed to MGB's financial position, citing Becker's Hospital Review, which reported the health system held $35.8 billion in assets, and a December STAT report that said MGB posted a $59.2 million operating gain and approximately $2.4 billion in net gains for its most recent fiscal year. The MNA also cited executive compensation figures showing the system's 14 highest-paid executives received a combined $35.9 million in fiscal 2024.

In a statement shared by WCVB, the hospital said it is taking seriously the union's decision to strike and is "fully prepared to continue providing high-quality patient care throughout a work stoppage."

"Brigham nurses are among the highest compensated in the market, and currently receive an annual 5% step increase on wages; our proposal ensures every nurse receives a raise through annual step increases or a top-of-scale increase while also preserving competitive health benefits, retirement support, paid time off, shift differential payments, and professional development opportunities as part of our overall compensation package. We respect and value our nurses and remain committed to reaching a fair agreement," the hospital said.

The strike authorization votes passed by wide margins, with Brigham nurses approving a one-day strike by 99.6% on June 16 and MGB Home Care clinicians authorizing a potential strike by 92% on May 19.

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