Reason for Action: Why are we doing this?

Graduate DegreeARHS is changing the way we reward certification and educational achievements by establishing a new Career Enhancement Program. In order to foster an environment of continuous staff development, we are refocusing our rewards toward nationally recognized certifications that create expertise in a given discipline. This will reduce variability across divisions by allowing all eligible employees the ability to receive a bonus at the time of certification and renewal.

To assist us in performing in an era when the healthcare environment is always changing, we will be reducing our compensation for educational achievements. These changes are consistent with other health systems and will mean we can continue to reward lifelong learning for our staff in the future.

This change will go into effect on date: June 1st, 2019

 


Roll Out: What does it look like?

Policy Details

It is important to note that we will not be reducing any current employee’s pay. If you have previously received educational or certification pay in your base salary, you get to keep your pay increase.

 

Educational Pay is continuing but at a different rate

Any degree awarded to an employee after May 31st will constitute the following increase in their base pay:

    • Bachelor’s Degree – 4%
    • Master’s Degree – 5%

 

Criteria for receiving additional compensation for Degrees has not changed and includes:

    • The employee must be pursuing a degree in their profession or field.
    • The degree must be applicable to the unit, department or division in which the employee is working.
    • Prior to enrolling in the course work or program, the employee must have their manager’s approval.

 

Certification Pay is refocused and will be awarded as a lump sum

An employee will be eligible to receive a one-time bonus payment at the completion of the certification exam and each time they renew. Bonus amounts will include:

    • Full-time employee- $500.00
    • Part-time employee- $250.00
    • Annual certification awarded amount is not to exceed $1,500.00

 

Reimbursement for the any course work or exam fees are paid at the Director’s discretion from the departmental budget.

Criteria for receiving additional compensation for Certifications includes:

    • The certification must be universally recognized within the profession or field and be on the approved eligible certification list.
    • The certification must be applicable to the unit, department or division in which the employee is working.
    • Full-time and part-time employees are eligible (excludes PRN).
    • The certification must be above and beyond the minimum requirement of the employee’s current position. This program is to recognize employees who receive an additional certification to become an expert in their field. This is not to recognize an additional learned skill or competency and will exclude certifications such as BLS, ACLS, PALS, NRP or acting as an instructor for skills training.

 

 


Responsibility: What is my role in the plan?

 

If you are interested in pursuing a national certification that requires pre-requisite education, preparation/study, exam, and continued education hours to maintain the certification, speak to you manager about whether the certification qualifies for bonus pay. If not, your manager may still be able to support your certification

When you receive a new eligible certification or a renewal of an approved certification, contact human resources to verify credential and they will initiate a one-time bonus payment.