A Win for Nurses but Not for All: Ongoing Healthcare Crisis in Portland

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    In early 2025, thousands of nurses across Providence hospitals participated in the largest healthcare labour action in Oregon's history. The strike, which lasted over six weeks, came about due to unresolved negotiations related to staffing, wages, and benefits for healthcare workers. However, this fight wasn't just for themselves - it was also for the patients they serve, including those who already face barriers to medical care like the houseless population. 

    The strike resulted in a new three-year contract for nurses which includes substantial pay raises and improvements to staffing. Despite securing this crucial win, the bigger fight for accessible healthcare is far from over. Without reliable housing, basic medical needs are also prone to going unmet. This leads to preventable illness, untreated chronic conditions, and unnecessary deaths. Organisations like Portland Street Medicine emphasise that a lack of access can increase the risk of late-stage diagnoses and hospitalisations for conditions that are otherwise preventable. Local organisations like these work tirelessly to bridge the gap in accessible healthcare, but the system needs to change. 

    Accessible healthcare doesn't stop with healthcare workers, it means advocating for the care of everyone - housed or not. Portland nurses took a stand for safe and fair healthcare but now it's our turn. Demand better funding for medical services, support street medicine organisations, and advocate for policies that make healthcare a right, not a privilege. 

    Portland Street Medicine works to meet people where they live. To volunteer for street rounds or health educations, visit here. Not able to volunteer? Donate to Portland Street Medicine here. 

    Outside In offers health services to adults and youth of all ages. To volunteer for food service, syringe exchange, or education, visit here. Not able to volunteer? Donate to Outside In here. 

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