Alameda Health System Pauses Layoffs at Highland as Kaiser Mental Health Talks Continue
Oakland, CA – March 10, 2026 – Alameda Health System paused planned layoffs at Highland Hospital as county leaders review options, and Kaiser Permanente continues Northern Calif…
Alameda Health System has temporarily halted planned job cuts that would have affected services at Highland Hospital and other East Bay facilities, giving county leaders time to review alternatives aimed at limiting patient impact.
Layoffs Deferred at Safety-Net Hospitals
The pause follows discussions between Alameda Health System and the Alameda County Board of Supervisors over a proposal that included eliminating 188 positions. The original plan outlined potential closures or reductions in several programs, including mental health services at Highland Hospital and Fairmont Hospital, Highland’s Complex Care Program for patients with multiple chronic conditions, and other support services.
County supervisors voted to explore cost-saving options that would avoid direct cuts to patient-facing care where possible. An ad hoc committee of supervisors is expected to work with health system leadership, labor representatives, and financial staff to review contracts, borrowing arrangements, and other budget items before the next public update.
Highland Hospital, located in Oakland, is a central provider of trauma care, emergency services, and behavioral health treatment for low-income and uninsured residents across Alameda County. Any sustained staffing reductions could affect appointment availability and specialty programs relied on by Oakland patients.
Kaiser Permanente Mental Health Contract Negotiations
Separately, Kaiser Permanente confirmed that it presented a new comprehensive proposal during ongoing negotiations with Northern California mental health and addiction medicine professionals represented by the National Union of Healthcare Workers.
The discussions follow a series of bargaining sessions earlier this year. Kaiser said the latest proposal addresses safety policies and other workplace provisions as negotiations continue. The talks involve clinicians who provide outpatient and specialty mental health services across the region, including in Oakland.
While no new strike has been announced, the outcome of negotiations could influence staffing stability and appointment access for Kaiser members seeking behavioral health care in the East Bay.
What Residents Should Know
Patients with upcoming appointments at Highland Hospital or other Alameda Health System clinics may consider confirming schedules as county leaders continue budget discussions. Kaiser Permanente members can monitor official updates from the health plan regarding mental health services and contract negotiations.
County supervisors are expected to revisit Alameda Health System budget options later this month. Any formal changes to services or staffing would be discussed in public meetings.
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