Jan. 25, 2025 (PORTLAND, Ore.) – The Oregon Nurses Association (ONA) is deeply troubled by a report from The Oregonian/OregonLive yesterday that suggests Providence Health System attempted to waive a patient's hospital bills only after being contacted by the media about the patient’s experience being cared for by strikebreaking nurses and providers. This development raises critical questions about whether Providence is applying a consistent approach to addressing patient concerns or selectively offering financial concessions in response to public scrutiny. 

ONA demands transparency from Providence and calls on the health system to disclose whether similar financial offers have been extended to other patients who have voiced concerns about the quality of care provided by temporary replacement staff. If Providence is selectively offering financial incentives to mitigate public scrutiny rather than addressing the root causes of these concerns, it represents a serious breach of public trust and accountability. 

Throughout the strike, Providence has repeatedly assured the public that they “have it under control” and that “things are running smoothly.” However, the mounting reports from patients and staff alike paint a very different picture—one of delayed care, compromised patient safety, and a health system more focused on damage control than on providing the high-quality care that our communities deserve. 

ONA stands firm in its commitment to advocating for safe staffing, quality patient care, and holding Providence accountable to the communities they serve.  

We also want to remind Providence, and all Oregonians, that our members are ready to return to work as soon as Providence gives them a fair contract.  

ONA also launched an online survey for Providence patients who may have also experienced concerns about the care they were provided by replacement staff.