Bassett Healthcare Network said it is increasing pay for more than 1,200 caregiver employees in central New York.  Following a full compensation evaluation, Bassett will be raising salaries to reward workers and incentivize retention efforts.

“I can never say it enough – our caregivers and practitioners are the heartbeat of our organization and our most vital asset, Dr. Tommy Ibrahim said in a statement delivered to CNY News. “Investing in our people is an investment in our patients and communities,” Ibrahim said.

The overall cost of the pay package totals nearly $50 million, according to a company media release.  Minimum wage workers hourly rate will rise to $16 from the current $15. And Bassett’s practitioners will be paid more with a focus on improving compensation and rewarding quality.

“Our overall goal has been to make sure Bassett’s wages are in line with comparable job positions in our industry and region,” Christine Pirri, senior vice president and chief people and diversity officer at Bassett, said in a statement.

Bassett Healthcare Network includes five hospitals, three of which are designated critical access hospitals, over two dozen community-based health centers, more than 20 school-based health centers, two skilled nursing facilities, a durable medical equipment company, and a home health agency.