The largest nurses strike in New York City history began Monday after contract negotiations failed between five major hospitals and the New York State Nurses Association (NYSNA). Nearly 15,000 nurses are now on strike at Mount Sinai Hospital, Mount Sinai Morningside, Mount Sinai West, NewYork-Presbyterian in Manhattan, and Montefiore Einstein in the Bronx.
A Historic Walkout
Nurses at Mount Sinai began picketing at 6 a.m., with those at the remaining hospitals joining them an hour later. The strike follows unsuccessful bargaining throughout the weekend, and comes as Montefiore prepares for a strike lasting multiple weeks. Governor Kathy Hochul has declared a state of emergency, citing concerns about potential disruptions to critical patient care.
Points of Contention
NYSNA accuses the hospital systems of prioritizing profits over patient safety and nurse well-being. Key issues in the dispute include pay raises, safe staffing levels, comprehensive health care coverage, pension security, and protections against workplace violence. Montefiore Senior Vice President Joe Solmonese stated that NYSNA is pursuing demands totaling $3.6 billion, including nearly 40% wage increases, and proposals regarding disciplinary action for nurses found to be impaired on the job.
Hospital representatives maintain they are committed to providing care and have proposed significant wage increases and benefit enhancements. Mount Sinai stated they are prepared with 1,400 qualified nurses to maintain patient care during the strike. NewYork-Presbyterian emphasized a need for compromise from both sides, acknowledging the challenges of the current healthcare environment.
Political Support and Patient Care
New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani joined striking nurses at NewYork-Presbyterian in Washington Heights, stating, “Their value is not negotiable and their worth is not up for debate.” He urged both sides to return to the bargaining table. Governor Hochul has signed executive orders to ensure the state Department of Health can provide support to impacted hospitals throughout the strike.
Hospital officials have assured the public that emergency rooms will remain open and patients should continue to seek necessary medical attention. NYSNA has also encouraged patients to continue seeking care, clarifying that doing so does not constitute crossing the picket line.
Concerns and Disruptions
While 20% of Mount Sinai nurses reported for work Monday, the strike is already causing disruption. Reports surfaced of a striking nurse being denied access to a Montefiore pharmacy to pick up a prescription, highlighting potential challenges for nurses accessing healthcare services during the work stoppage. Montefiore has stated that striking nurses can request home delivery of prescriptions.
What Happens Next?
The immediate future remains uncertain. Negotiations could resume at any time, potentially leading to a swift resolution. However, with both sides appearing entrenched in their positions, the strike could continue for an extended period. If the strike persists, hospitals may face increasing pressure to find replacement staff, and the impact on patient care could become more pronounced. It is also possible that public and political pressure could compel both sides to compromise.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did the nurses strike begin?
The strike began on Monday, January 12, 2026, with nurses at Mount Sinai Hospital walking off the job at 6 a.m., followed by nurses at other hospitals an hour later.
How many nurses are participating in the strike?
Nearly 15,000 nurses are participating in the strike across five hospitals: Mount Sinai Hospital, Mount Sinai Morningside, Mount Sinai West, NewYork-Presbyterian, and Montefiore Einstein.
What are the main issues driving the strike?
The main issues include pay raises, safe staffing levels, full health care coverage, pensions, and workplace protections against violence, with NYSNA accusing the hospitals of prioritizing profits over patient care and nurse well-being.
What impact will this strike have on patients seeking care in New York City?
