Law enforcement officers were seen responding to a protest outside Kaiser Los Angeles Medical Center in the East Hollywood area, led by a union which has accused the company of unfair labor conditions.

The union reports that the strike has left thousands of Kaiser patients facing long waits and canceled appointments. Mediation talks could begin as early as February 17.

Gov. Gavin Newsom sent a letter to Kaiser and the union president urging them to settle the strike through mediation.

As Hawaii continues to experience a shortage of health care workers, Kaiser Permanente is investing in local youth. The company is expanding it’s junior volunteer and internship programs to encourage Hawaii’s youth to explore careers in the healthcare industry.