New York State recognizes the invaluable contributions of its healthcare workers, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. To address staffing shortages and retain experienced professionals, the state has implemented several health care programs. This article focuses on the Health Care Worker Bonus (HWB) Program, a significant initiative providing financial incentives to eligible frontline healthcare and mental hygiene workers.
Understanding the HWB Program
The HWB program, funded with $1.2 billion, aims to recruit, retain, and reward eligible healthcare workers with bonuses of up to $3,000 per person. This initiative acknowledges the dedication and sacrifices made by these essential workers during the public health crisis. The program is part of Part ZZ of Chapter 56 of the Laws of 2022.
Who Qualifies for the Bonus?
Eligibility for the HWB program encompasses both employers and employees.
Qualified Employers
Eligible employers include healthcare providers billing for services under the Medicaid state plan, home and community-based services (HCBS) waivers, managed care organizations, certain educational institutions, and programs funded by agencies like the Office of Mental Health (OMH) and the Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD).
Qualified Employees
Eligible employees must be frontline healthcare and mental hygiene practitioners, technicians, assistants, and aides providing hands-on care. Key eligibility requirements include:
- Continuous employment with a qualified employer for at least one vesting period.
- Holding an approved job title listed in the Eligible Worker Titles section.
- An annualized base salary (excluding bonuses and overtime) not exceeding $125,000.
- Completion of an Employee Attestation Form.
- No suspension or exclusion from the Medicaid program.
Bonus Structure and Vesting Periods
The bonus amount is determined by the number of hours worked per week during a vesting period:
- 20-30 hours: $500 bonus
- 30-35 hours: $1,000 bonus
- 35+ hours: $1,500 bonus
A qualified employee can earn bonuses for up to two vesting periods, with a maximum total bonus of $3,000. Vesting periods are consecutive six-month intervals between October 1, 2021, and March 31, 2024. Specific vesting period dates and submission deadlines are available in the original document’s vesting schedule.
Claiming the Bonus
Qualified employers are responsible for submitting bonus claims on behalf of their eligible employees. The process involves enrolling in the HWB Program Portal, using either a valid MMIS ID (for Medicaid employers) or an SFS Vendor ID (for non-Medicaid employers). Claims must be submitted within 30 days of the end of a completed vesting period.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Employers failing to claim or pay bonuses for more than 10% of eligible workers may face penalties of up to $1,000 per violation. The Office of the Medicaid Inspector General (OMIG) will audit payments to ensure proper distribution of funds. For information about returning overpayments, refer to the Self-Disclosure of Health Care Worker Bonus Payments page.
Eligible Worker Title List
A comprehensive list of eligible worker titles, categorized as Frontline Direct Care, All Other Health Care Support Workers, and Titles Determined by the Commissioner, is provided in the original document. This list includes various medical professionals, technicians, aides, and support staff. An expansion of eligible titles and provider types was announced on November 17, 2022, with details available on the HWB Program Expansion Notice page. The “All Other Health Care Support Workers” category encompasses roles similar to those listed, specifically supporting patient care in hospital or institutional settings.
Further Information and Assistance
For detailed information and assistance regarding the HWB program, visit the HWB Program Portal or contact the Health Care Worker Bonus (HWB) Call Center at (866) 682-0077. The portal includes a Technical Portal Guide with submission instructions. Information on correcting underpaid bonuses (ranging from $0.00 to $1000.00) is also available.
