As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to impact healthcare workers throughout California, Governor Newsom has signed legislation to help with this. The bill (section 37) provides for worker retention payments, which many will be eligible to receive.
What is a worker retention bonus?
A retention bonus is a payment made to workers to encourage them to remain employed. These payments are designed to help financially support healthcare employers and workers during the pandemic. Eligible workers and physicians will be able to receive a one-time payment in addition to any other compensations they may already be receiving.
Why is this necessary?
These payments are intended to help mitigate the loss of employees during this time of crisis. Employers are struggling to retain workers during the COVID-19 pandemic for various reasons. One reason is that many workers are concerned about their safety as the pandemic continues to spread. Additionally, many workers are worried about the potential impacts of the pandemic on their families and homes.
Another reason why employers are struggling to retain workers is because of the financial uncertainty caused by the pandemic. After all, many are afraid that they could lose their jobs if the company struggles financially. Also, many workers do not know if they will be able to receive unemployment benefits if they are laid off.
Finally, some employers may struggle to retain workers because of the increased workloads and stress levels during the pandemic. As such, these workers are more likely to seek employment elsewhere.
What does this mean for employers?
Healthcare facilities throughout California are urged to take advantage of this legislation. By providing worker retention payments, the state is helping to ensure that healthcare facilities can continue to operate and provide critical services. This will be a valuable resource for not only employers but also their patients and clients, who rely on these facilities for their medical needs.
Additionally, the worker retention payments will help to keep healthcare staff motivated and invested in their roles, which will ensure that the quality of care remains high. The payments will also help to reduce turnover, as workers will be less likely to seek out other employment during the pandemic.
What does it mean for workers?
For workers, the passage of section 37 means that not only will they will be eligible to receive worker retention payments, but that these will help them to make ends meet during these uncertain times and give them a sense of relief. Because of these payments, healthcare workers will have one less thing to worry about during this pandemic. Moreover, the payments will also encourage loyalty among workers who may otherwise have sought new positions elsewhere.
Who is eligible for worker retention payments?
Many groups working in qualifying facilities will be eligible to receive a retention payment. The DHCS website states the following are eligible if employed from July 30, 2022, to October 28, 2022: part-time employees, independent physicians, and those part of Physician Group Entities (PGEs). Also, physicians employed by Covered Services Employers (CSEs) or Covered Entities (CEs) who provided onsite services as of the date of record, November 28, 2022.
To register, fill out the registration form available on the same website. Note that the application process for CEs, CSEs, and PGEs ends on December 30, 2022. It is beneficial to submit your application as early as possible so that DHCS can validate it and ensure it meets all requirements. This will help avoid delays or issues when the final due date arrives.
Advice for workers receiving retention payments
If you are eligible for a payment, it can provide some much-needed peace of mind in knowing that your job is secure during this difficult time. It’s recommended to use it for essential expenses first so you won’t have to worry about how you’ll pay for rent, bills, groceries, and other necessary costs. It can also help you to save for retirement, pay off debt, or invest in your future.
At this point, you may also want to consider taking advantage of a wealth and asset management service to make the most out of this bonus and your savings. These services can help you create a personalized plan that fits your financial goals and needs. It will also ensure that none of your money goes to waste.
Overall, the worker retention payments will help to ensure that California’s healthcare workforce is stabilized and retained during the COVID-19 pandemic. Whether you’re a patient, worker, or employer, this can be of great help during these trying times. So, if you’re receiving a worker retention payment, ensure you make the most of it.
