Hartford HealthCare to up minimum wage to $15

Hartford HealthCare on Monday announced that “after months of thoughtful consideration and planning,” it is increasing its minimum pay to $15 per hour, effective March 31.

A press release from Hartford HealthCare said the move will benefit more than 2,400 of the group’s 20,000 employees across the state.

The current minimum wage for Hartford HealthCare employees is $10.10, which went into effect when the state changed its minimum wage on Jan. 1, 2017, Chief Administrative Officer Tracy Church said. The positions that will be seeing an increase include patient care technicians, patient attendants and food service workers.

“This important decision is a reflection of our respect for our staff and a product of our core value of integrity that calls us to ‘do the right thing,’” CEO Elliot Joseph said. “Investing in the financial security of those who work with us is further recognition of everyone’s contributions to carrying out our mission.”

He added that studies have shown a link between financial security and improved health, meaning that a healthier workforce “benefits all of us.”

Hartford HealthCare expects the increased wages to increase employee retention and “help attract great applicants for open positions.”

In southeastern Connecticut, Hartford HealthCare includes The William W. Backus Hospital in Norwich, along with primary care offices in East Lyme, Old Lyme, Montville, Waterford, Mystic and North Stonington, and outpatient treatment for children in Groton.

Church said 131 employees at Backus Hospital will see an increase in pay.