After the CDPH released guidance allowing hospitals to reduce COVID safety protocols, Prime St. Francis Medical Center in Lynwood, CA pressured COVID-positive caregivers to return to work without testing or quarantine requirements. SEIU-UHW members at St. Francis fought back against Prime’s choice to put profits over worker and patient safety.

We held a protest starting at 11am on Jan. 26th and were joined by US Representative Nanette Barragán. Thanks to support from Rep. Barragán and public pressure on the hospital, we met with management at 12:30pm and St. Francis announced they would immediately end the practice of bringing COVID-positive workers in. The hospital also promised to provide COVID tests for any employee having symptoms and give exposure notifications to any workers exposed to COVID. When we fight, we win!