Hagåtña, Guam—The Leon Guerrero-Tenorio Administration announces that effective Monday, April 1, 2024, the Government of Guam implemented an 18% pay increase for nurse salaries, as recommended by a wage study performed by the Department of Administration. Governor Lou Leon Guerrero signed off on the Nurse Pay Plan, which addresses the critical issue of recruitment and retention, especially at the Guam Memorial Hospital.
“As Governor, it’s imperative that we recognize and address the challenges facing our healthcare workforce head on. My directive to the Department of Administration to conduct a comprehensive pay study on nurses reflects our commitment to retaining and supporting our invaluable frontline workers. In the wake of the pandemic, we've witnessed a national trend of healthcare professionals seeking better opportunities elsewhere. This reality not only undermines the stability of our healthcare system but also places a strain on our resources as we increasingly rely on travel nurses, a costly solution in the long term. We must act swiftly and decisively to ensure that Guam remains an attractive and competitive destination for our healthcare talent, safeguarding the well-being of our community for generations to come,” said Governor Leon Guerrero.
“Under our administration, we’ve prioritized investing in our teachers, nurses, law enforcement officers, and hardworking public sector employees. Today, as we announce an additional 18% pay increase for nurses, we reaffirm our commitment to investing in the backbone of our healthcare system. In the face of nationwide recruitment challenges, we stand firm in our resolve to retain and recruit the talents needed to ensure the execution of vital government services,” said Lt. Governor Joshua Tenorio. “Additionally, we continue to work with the University of Guam and the Guam Community College, whose programming is supporting the next generation of healthcare professionals.”
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