We are troubled to learn that Providence Swedish is resorting to layoffs affecting members of our SEIU Healthcare 1199NW family. Moments like this create real uncertainty for caregivers, and we want our impacted members to know that we are requesting more information from Providence so we can support them through every step of this process and advocate for protections, including moving impacted workers to open positions in the system.
These cuts are not happening in isolation. Across the industry, employers are using the disruptions created by HR 1, and the broader instability introduced by the so-called “One Big Beautiful Bill,” to justify reductions to the workforce. We cannot allow layoffs to become the default response. Revenue matters, and employers must be transparent and responsible in how they balance budgets.
When hospitals cut frontline care jobs at the same time federal cuts threaten Medicaid and other healthcare funding, it is patients and communities who pay the price. We will see longer wait times, sicker patients, and fewer staff available to meet rising care needs. We believe this is the wrong direction for healthcare.
Our union contract outlines protections in situations like this, and we will ensure Providence upholds those commitments. But this moment also calls for bold action. We encourage our communities to pay close attention because healthcare access is on the line. HR 1 has given employers cover to make cuts, and we must push for new, sustainable ways to generate the revenue needed to preserve and strengthen patient care, not weaken it.
Jane Hopkins, RN, president of SEIU Healthcare 1199NW
About SEIU Healthcare 1199NW
SEIU Healthcare 1199NW is a union of nurses and healthcare workers with more than 37,000 caregivers throughout hospitals, clinics, mental health, skilled home health and hospice programs in Washington state and Montana. SEIU Healthcare 1199NW’s mission is to advocate for quality care and good jobs for all.