Hundreds of workers at an Olympia hospital went on strike Monday over their health care costs.

The union that represents workers at Providence St. Peter Hospital told The Olympia ( http://is.gd/ezwsoS) the two sides have failed to come to agreement over a health plan that went into effect on Jan. 1.

The Service Employees International Union represents about 530 workers at the hospital, including dietary, housekeeping and health unit coordinators. They are set to go on strike for five days.

A hospital spokeswoman says they will continue to provide patient care and have a contingency plan in place.

Providence has offered its employees three health plans that members could choose from. Doctors and registered nurses remain on the job.

---

Information from: The Olympian, http://www.theolympian.com