What We’re Reading: Robotic Mastectomies; Maternity Care Discrimination; Ongoing Kaiser Permanente Strike Issues

Clinical Trial Evaluating Robotic-Assisted, Single-Incision Mastectomies

City of Hope is conducting a multicenter clinical trial to evaluate the efficacy of robotic-assisted, single-incision mastectomies, according to a recent press release. The minimally invasive technique leaves a small hidden scar on the side of the body, potentially leading to significant improvements in breast surgery. The trial is open to patients in the early stages of breast cancer, with participants divided into 2 groups: traditional surgery and a single-incision robotic procedure using the da Vinci SP robotic-assisted surgical system. City of Hope states that it aims to provide the latest surgical options to its patients, and this procedure has the potential to be a breakthrough in breast cancer surgery.

Racial Discrimination a Persistent Issue in Maternity Care

The federal government's standard patient experience survey, the Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems, lacks questions about maternity care and discrimination and has low response rates among people of color, according to Kaiser Health News. New feedback mechanisms, such as the Irth app and PREM-OB survey, aim to provide a platform for women of color to share their experiences. California hospitals are expected to start posting data on birth outcomes and patient satisfaction measures broken out by race and other demographics in 2026, which could help improve transparency and accountability.

Kaiser Permanente Health Workers Labor Disputes Ongoing

Kaiser Permanente health care workers, including x-ray technicians, receptionists, medical assistants, and sanitation workers, went on a 3-day strike over labor disputes, but returned to work on Saturday, according to The New York Times. However, no new negotiation sessions have been scheduled until Thursday, October 12, and Friday, October 13, with union officials warning another walkout is possible. The 2 sides have yet to come to an agreement on several key issues, including wage increases and the outsourcing of critical health care duties.