LTC Benefits Package

[RespiratoryGirl011]

I am finishing up my CNA class pretty soon. Since all of the area hospitals require at least 6 months of experience before they will hire a CNA/PCT, I expect to be starting off in LTC.

For everyone out there that is/has worked in LTC as a CNA, I was wondering what, if any, benefits a LTC would offer to a CNA. I would like to work part time (24-30 hrs/wk) but would not mind working evenings, nights, and the occassional weekend. I was mostly wondering if medical insurance was offered, and if it was very expensive. I do not have any medical problems, but it probably wouldn't hurt to have insurance just in case. I was also wondering if tuition assistance is available. I am going to school to be a Respiratory Therapist, not a RN. So if a LTC has no need for a RRT, I wasn't sure if they would provide any tuition assistance, even if they do to their nursing students.

[sonomala]

Where I'm working benefits are only offered to those who work 36 or more hours a week and theres a 401K as well. Other ltcs might be different esp if you're in an area with a high demand for cnas. The fact you're willing to work nights weekends ect, part time will be a big plus. As for tuition assistance, I've only seen that at the hospitals but with some exp you should be willing to transfer to one pretty quickly. Don't rule out becoming an NA2. The ERs here are always looking for them. Good luck!

[FutureNurse23]

LTC has the same benefits as the hospitals. And the LTC place I worked at actually had a cheaper insurance package. Some of the benefits I get at my current job which is LTC is... medical/dental, holiday double pay, pto, direct deposit, workers comp, and paid tuition. I also worked at a LTC place where I just worked the weekend 2 12hr shifts and 1 day 8hrs during the week to get medical and dental. You would be suprized at home some LTC places start new grads out actually better than some downtown local hospitals. I know this was the case for me anyhow.

[FutureNurse23]

If you can don't take the first thing in LTC that is offered to you though. If you have some options shop around. And find what best fits your needs. Don't always look at the money due to other LTC places may have less pay but better benefits.

[rancelumsden]

"....Don't always look at the money due to other LTC places may have less pay but better benefits....".

Very true and often not understood by many CNA's, especially if they're new to the working world in general.

I've worked hospital, LTC, and ambulatory clinic.

Benes vary greatly. The LTC 'chains' often have better benes than the small, privately owned places --- but not always. You really do have to ask if you're serious about comparing job offers (if you're lucky to have multiple places that want you).

And benes discussed, such as tuition reimbursement, also vary. Might be 50% one place, 75% the next. If you're seriously going to school, a 25% difference could mean a lot to you. For instance, some places also pay (some or all) for books too. Anyone priced books lately?

[RespiratoryGirl011]

Thanks for the replies!

One more question: If I were to be offered tuition assistance, does that mean I will be bound to work at a facility for so long after graduation or is it merely considered a benefit/bonus?

[Atheos]

Thanks for the replies!

One more question: If I were to be offered tuition assistance, does that mean I will be bound to work at a facility for so long after graduation or is it merely considered a benefit/bonus?

Depends on the facility.

Some make you bind you to work for x amount of dollars. My facility does not obligate you at all. However, you have to maintain a certain grade average B to keep the money or you ARE bound to pay it back.