OCHN to distribute retention payment

OAKLAND COUNTY, MI (Monday, May 23, 2022) – Oakland Community Health Network (OCHN) announced today that it is moving forward with the distribution of a retention payment within OCHN's service network, including clinical staff and Direct Support Professionals (DSP).

Plans to offer the retention payment to healthcare workers were first shared by OCHN in March of 2022. The retention payment benefit applies to all employees funded in whole or part by OCHN either directly or within OCHN’s service provider network.

“Information from individuals OCHN supports, its service needs assessments, and provider network calls for immediate action to address the current direct care workforce crisis,” states OCHN Executive Director and CEO, Dana Lasenby. “The distribution of the retention payment and increases to salaries demonstrates our commitment to ensure appropriate living wages are made available to these truly amazing healthcare heroes.”

In September of 2021, Michigan’s legislature approved a $2.35 wage increase for DSPs. OCHN then allocated an additional $1.43 to this amount, bringing the funded wage for this position to $15 an hour.

OCHN also implemented a network-wide wage increase for master-level clinicians, adjusting it to the current market rate.

“In addition to wages, we are also exploring opportunities for employment advancement and for people to earn college credits,” adds Lasenby. “OCHN’s network clinicians and direct care workers who are on the frontlines providing support to the county’s most vulnerable citizens need to know they are valued and that there are career pathways to be successful in this field.”

The retention payment amounts were determined by a comprehensive market wage analysis. Funds for the employee benefit were presented to and approved by OCHN’s Board of Directors during the organization’s May 2022 meeting.

About OCHN

OCHN is contracted by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services to lead a provider service network that assists approximately 23,000 Oakland County citizens at more than 300 service sites across the county. People who receive public behavioral health services through OCHN's provider network include those who have an intellectual or developmental disability, mental health challenge, or substance use disorder. Most of these individuals have Medicaid insurance coverage.

OCHN's goal is to ensure these individuals are aware of and have access to services and supports that will improve their health and quality of life, as well as ensure their engagement in full community participation. Its mission to “inspire hope, empower people, and strengthen communities” reflects an unyielding belief in a "Valuable System for Valued People." Programs and supports provided by OCHN's service network are available at www.oaklandchn.org.

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