Sadly, far too many allied healthcare workers are not always paid what they are worth. Knowledge is power, so wage surveys have the capability to empower workers by generating immensely helpful information about pay rates.
Money is integral to our quality of life. Sorry, but a fake smile is not going to keep a roof over our heads, a pat on the back will not pay the past due electric bill, and a hug isn't going keep us fed and clothed. We all want, need and love to be compensated appropriately for the very important work that we do. Unofficial wage surveys are tremendously helpful because:
The millions of hard-working people across the country who belong to the allied healthcare community have recently ushered in another new year that is filled with a mixture of boundless potential, endless possibilities and anxious uncertainties. Nurses aides, medical assistants, patient care technicians, home health aides, and other types of unlicensed assistive personnel are extremely important to the flawless functioning of our healthcare system and to society as a whole.
Unfortunately, too many allied healthcare workers are not always paid wages that correspond with their high levels of motivation, professionalism, dedication, thoroughness, multi-tasking capabilities and years of experience. In fact, it might be shocking to discover that some of our peers are not earning a great deal more than the federal minimum wage threshold.
If we think about the topic of pay for too long, we might become disillusioned at the realization that the gum-popping cashier at the McDonald's fast food joint earns about the same hourly rate as CNAs in many cities and towns.
Many people who deny the importance of wages are simply being dishonest with themselves. Salary is a major factor for the majority of people who figuratively bust their butts and put in exhausting days at work. And even though an allied healthcare worker might take great pride in the work she performs on a day to day basis, she probably would not keep reporting to the workplace if her boss made the following announcement out of the blue:
"We are regretfully informing you that the company is no longer issuing pay checks to any employees starting today. From now on, the company will compensate all employees with thumbs up, hugs, warmth, smiles, pats on the back, cookies, platitudes, and recognition for doing an outstanding job."
What is your job title? CNA
Where are you located? Oregon
What is your hourly wage? $11/hr
Are you paid shift differentials? No shift diff
What shift(s) do you usually work? 2pm-10pm
What is your current specialty? Long term care & rehab
How many years of experience do you have? Less than one year
What is your status? Full-time (4 nights on, 2 nights off rotation)
Are you a pursuing a career as a nurse? Yes
What is your job title (CNA, medical assistant, medication aide, HHA, PCT, PCA)?
HHA/CNA
What is your job title (CNA, medical assistant, medication aide, HHA, PCT, PCA)? CMA
Where are you located? Illinois
What is your hourly wage? 17.70
Are you paid shift differentials? Yes
What shift(s) do you usually work? Days
What is your current specialty (rehab, med/surg, ortho, doctors' office, clinic, long term care, psych, home health, hospice, etc.)? Pediatrics
How many years of experience do you have? 6
What is your status (full-time, part-time, or casual / per diem / PRN)?full time
Are you a pursuing a career as a nurse (RN or LPN)?
No
i worked as an CMA in Michigan 6 years ago and starting wage was 10.00 in Illinois when I started in my current position two years ago started at 15.25
pookabeary
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