With the new year underway, what better way to get organized than to review your benefits? We know you’re busy, especially after a 12 hour night shift, that’s why this blog entry is just for you. Below are five often overlooked hospital benefits that you might be missing.

Tuition Reimbursement

Almost all healthcare employers offer some form of tuition assistance, yet tuition assistance remains one of the most overlooked hospital benefits out there. Don’t miss out on this valuable benefit! Make it a priority to start taking advantage as soon as you are eligible. Pursuing a degree through your employer’s tuition reimbursement program makes good financial sense. It will also increase your future salary potential and opportunities for promotion. Most programs reimburse (or pay outright) for individual classes, so even if you don’t plan to pursue a full degree, these programs are great for classes in specific subject areas. This includes technical software, management, or communication – areas where it always helps to be a step ahead.

401(k) Match

Last year CNBC reported that Americans left an estimated $24 billion behind by not taking advantage of their company’s full employer match. If you don’t already know what your employer match is, now is the time to start asking questions. Taking advantage of your employer’s match will make an important difference in your account balance. For example, if your employer matches 50 percent of your contribution for the first six percent of your salary, saving the full six percent can give your savings a nice bump. If you don’t max out this benefit, you’re essentially turning away free money. Just another of the many overlooked hospital benefits!

Wellness Programs

Wellness programs first started appearing about 5 years ago and their presence is now almost guaranteed at large companies. The specifics of these programs vary from reduced health insurance premiums to free gym memberships. Almost all offer some sort of financial incentive for an employee’s participation. If you don’t know the specifics of your program, the first of the year is the perfect time to investigate. Most programs run on a calendar year, with your participation required over all 12 months to earn the full amount. Even a small reduction in bi-weekly insurance premiums adds up over the course of a year. Insider tip: If your employer doesn’t offer a corporate wellness program, check with your health insurance company directly. Many offer their own incentive programs you may be eligible to join.

Employee Discount Programs

This is one of our favorites from the list of overlooked hospital benefits! Local businesses often offer employee discounts to large employers, especially hospitals. Free food and coupons for shopping are an awesome side perk of the job, but some hospitals also extend big ticket discounts. This includes car rentals and hotel stay rates at the corporate rate. From discounted movie tickets, to reduced fees with participating legal and financial professionals, you will be surprised at how much you can save. Check with HR for a list discounts available to you. Insider tip: If you live in a large city, find out if your hospital offers a discount on monthly transit passes. Commuter rail, subway and bus fares added up quickly!

Flexible Spending Account

Most hospital employers offer Flex Spending Accounts (FSA). This is a pre-tax account that employees can elect to contribute to directly from their paycheck. FSAs can be used for big ticket items such as childcare, orthodontics or laser eye surgery. They can also be used for everyday items such as sunscreen, pregnancy tests, therapy or reading glasses. Just remember that FSA money is only good for the current calendar year. Don’t put in more than you plan to use by the end of the year.
You work in a hospital because you’re a healthcare professional and find helping patients rewarding, but don’t forget about yourself!  Hospital employment comes with other benefits too! Start off 2017 by making the most of often overlooked hospital benefits.
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