Danville, Pa.-based Geisinger revealed plans Aug. 29 to raise the minimum wage for employees and new hires systemwide for the second time in three years.
The health system plans to raise its minimum hire rate to $11 per hour, affecting an estimated 800 employees. Some employees will also be moved into a higher pay range. Employees in the food service and environmental service divisions will benefit the most from the changes, according to Geisinger.
Amy Brayford, executive vice president, chief human resource officer and chief of staff at Geisinger, said in the news release the move demonstrates officials' commitment to employees.
"It was important to us to make this investment in our employees. As a large employer and leader in our communities, we wanted to take care of our employees who support the excellent care and service our patients receive. This increase will allow us to continue to retain and hire the best employees, which in turn helps the health and well-being of our communities," she said.
Geisinger spends roughly $2.5 billion per year on employees' salaries, wages, and medical and retirement benefits. During the past year, the system spent $40 million on employees in the form of merit increases, tuition reimbursements and employee recognition programs.