BEND, Ore. — Negotiations aimed at ending Oregon’s largest healthcare worker strike resumed in-person on Wednesday, following a request from Governor Tina Kotek. The strike, which began on January 10, has left nearly 5,000 nurses, doctors, and healthcare workers at Providence Health & Services hospitals and clinics across the state out of work for nearly three weeks.

The ongoing strike has led to significant disruptions in healthcare services throughout Oregon. Providence has been forced to rely on temporary replacement staff, while some scheduled medical procedures have been canceled or postponed. The situation has created concern among patients and healthcare professionals alike, with many questioning the long-term effects on the state’s healthcare system.

“We are committed to providing the best possible care, and the current strike is impacting our ability to do so,” said a spokesperson for Providence Health & Services, though they did not respond to specific requests for additional details regarding the ongoing mediation.

The dispute centers on a range of issues, including wage increases, staffing shortages, and working conditions. As one of the largest healthcare providers in the state, Providence has been under pressure to address the demands of its employees while balancing the needs of its patients.

Governor Kotek’s intervention comes as state leaders recognize the gravity of the strike’s impact. The mediation sessions, aimed at reaching a resolution, are seen as a critical step toward ending the impasse. With both sides returning to the negotiating table, there is hope that a deal can be reached soon to end the strike and restore normal operations to Oregon’s healthcare facilities.

As the strike enters its third week, the healthcare community remains watchful, with many hoping that mediation will lead to a fair and lasting solution.