Mass General Brigham Stalls Negotiations with Home Care Clinicians

The bargaining committee for the Massachusetts Nurses Association arrived at the Somerville session prepared to bridge the gap on core issues, including patient caseload limits and wage competition. Instead of a counter-proposal, MGB representatives maintained their original position, effectively freezing the talks. Shannon Viera, a registered nurse and chair of the bargaining committee, characterized the refusal as a product of corporate greed that undermines the quality of complex home care services.

This impasse follows a July 22 session where management similarly declined to negotiate in the wake of a historic seven-day strike that began on July 8. Clinicians argue their proposals are essential for recruitment and long-term retention, noting that their work prevents unnecessary hospitalizations for patients requiring intensive support. Kara Wilson, an occupational therapist and committee member, emphasized that the union remains united and prepared to escalate their campaign if the current stalemate persists.