Brigham and Women’s Hospital Nurse Union Updates

Patient and visitor information for an indefinite strike

• The MNA, the union that represents Brigham and Women’s Hospital nurses, has informed us of their intent to begin an indefinite strike starting Wednesday, October 14.
• Please know that your care and safety remain our highest priority.
• We have comprehensive plans in place and are prepared if a strike is called.
• We will keep you informed if there are any updates that may affect your care.
• Everyone at the hospital, including our nurses, is focused on providing you and your loved ones with safe, high-quality care.

FAQ

Will there definitely be a strike?

Only the union can decide whether to strike. We have made emergency plans to keep care safe and high-quality during the planned work stoppage starting Wednesday, October 14. Skilled, experienced nurses will fill in during the strike, joining our existing care teams. Many of these nurses work at academic medical centers across the country. They will receive orientation before their first shift.

How long will the strike be?

The MNA has given notice of an indefinite strike. This means there is no set end date. Nurses in the bargaining unit cannot work during the strike. They can only return to work after both sides agree on a return-to-work plan and timing.

What is the status of nursing contract negotiations?

The hospital and the union have been bargaining since November 2025. They have held 25 sessions and so far, reached 16 tentative agreements. Significant differences remain on economic issues. Progress has stalled recently.

At the last session on Aug. 11, the hospital told the union that we are at an impasse. We do not think it is helpful to keep meeting right now. We are willing to return to the table once the union is ready to make real progress on the key issues.

Our current proposal keeps the nurses’ pay among the best in the nation and local area. It does this through:

• Yearly 5% pay raises as part of the 20-step pay scale, plus extra pay or bonuses for nurses at the top step who no longer get the 5% raises.
• Continued strong pay for extra shifts, support for career growth, and generous health benefits.

What does a strike mean for my upcoming appointment at Brigham and Women's Hospital?

We will be ready with plans to give safe, high-quality care, just as we did during the five-day strike in July. If your appointment changes, someone from our care team will call you. Otherwise, please come to your appointment as planned. Give yourself extra time in case of traffic near the hospital.

If an indefinite strike is scheduled, can I access care at Brigham and Women's Hospital?

Brigham and Women's Hospital will stay open and ready to care for patients during a strike. Skilled, experienced nurses will fill in and join our existing care teams.

If you have questions about your appointment, or want to reschedule, please reach out to your provider's office and we will assist you.