The long brewing healthcare workers strike at Swedish Medical Center led to closure of two emgergency rooms in Ballard and Redmond and the idling of 7,800 registered nurses, caregivers and staff.

The strike will last three days beginning at 7 a.m. Tuesday.

SEIU Healthcare 1199NW union released a statement that said in part, "Ever since corporate giant Providence took over Swedish, healthcare workers have seen management prioritize profits and executive pay over patients’ needs, causing severe care problems, understaffing and turnover."

Providence is Washington’s largest healthcare corporation, with more than 1,000 facilities in seven states.