Top

Since 2000, over 90,000 healthcare workers have joined 1199SEIU and have won raises, better benefits, retirement security, job protections, no-cost education opportunities and a voice in staffing and patient care. 1199SEIU is the fastest-growing, most effective union for healthcare workers in America. Read more

Follow us on:

This form does not yet contain any fields.

    Raises and Benefits

    Despite the tough economy, members of 1199SEIU have used our voice to win the highest job standards for healthcare workers in America:

    "1199SEIU provided invaluable research and analytical support when we were negotiating for improvements with management. The 1199SEIU staff compiled compensation data for physician assistants across the state, which helped us advocate for higher wages and benefits. 1199SEIU is the best choice for healthcare professionals.”

    DeWitt Scott, Physician Assistant, Beth Israel Medical Center, New York

    Higher Wages

    As healthcare workers, we have some of the most important jobs in the country. But we’re not always fairly compensated for our work. And as the cost of living goes up, our wages do not always keep pace. The members of 1199 have been able to win some of the very best compensation, including:
    • Guaranteed yearly raises.
    • Step increases for years of experience.
    • Improved evening, night, weekend and holiday differentials.
    • Higher wages for increased skill levels and certifications.
    • Better on-call pay
    • Minimum wage levels for the lowest paid workers.

    Here are some examples of recent improvements in wages 1199 member have gained:


    Workers in the Caritas Christi Healthcare System in Massachusetts:

    Contract Highlights:

    • All workers will now earn at least $12.62 per hour.
    • All workers will receive a 3% raise at the start of the contract and 4% in October 2010 (That’s 7% in one year alone!)
    • All workers received a $350 sign on bonus.
    • All workers are now eligible for the 1199 Training and Upgrading Fund (Up to 6 credits per semester!)
    • Significant job protections including no subcontracting.
    • Lower health care premiums – especially for those enrolled in family plans.

    1199 members at Omni in New Jersey won:

    • 15.5% wage increase over four years
    • Additional wage increases that bring minimum salary for Dietary, Recreation and Laundry workers to $10 per hour and Certified Nursing Assistants to $11 by 2011. Some workers were earning as low as $7.35 per hour before the new contract
    • Improved health benefits for all workers



    “1199 is great for my family. I feel better knowing that I have job security, especially since I have college-aged children. I love 1199 benefits. You should join us!

    Linda Grant, Medical Technologist, New York




    Better Benefits

    In addition to higher wages, 1199 members have won a wide range of benefits, including:

    Low-cost or no-cost health coverage.
    Most 1199 members, both full and part-time, have access to low-cost or no-cost health insurance for themselves and their families. This often includes dental, vision and prescription coverage as well.

    Paid time off
    1199 members have won some of the best vacation, sick time and holidays in the country.

    For example, Workers at Caritas Christi Healthcare in Massachusetts have the security of knowing that they can earn as much as 360 hours or 45 days of paid time off each year.

    “I voted yes because it was time to expand our reach to more hospitals in Florida. With more resources, more healthcare workers will be able to join our union and together, we can win better benefits.”

    Eduardo Eguino, Surgical Tech, Kendall Regional Medical Center