News

As the nation, state, and Brevard community all begin to steadily (but cautiously) emerge from the COVID-19 pandemic, leadership at Health First have long been planning how to appropriately thank our associates for their dedication and steadfast commitment.

This month, Health First recognized its associate's effort with the 'gift of time' through paid time off for both full-time and part-time associates who wish to catch up on much needed rest and relaxation, visit family and friends, or just get out and re-engage with the world.

"The words 'thank you' will never be enough. And the word 'unprecedented' has been often appropriately used throughout the pandemic. This challenging time for our country and organization is unlike anything any of us have ever experienced," said Paula Just, Health First Executive Vice President and Chief Administration Officer.

"At a time when our community needed us the most, our associates rose to that occasion. We have immense gratitude for their care, compassion, and selflessness. Our leadership team has thought long and hard about how to appropriately thank them. What greater gift than the gift of time ... to recapture a little bit of lost time?"

Depending upon their job status and employment tenure, Health First associates have been given up to 40 hours additional Personal Leave, or paid time off.

"Every person in our organization has a story and has played a role in supporting our community this past year, and it truly took every single one of them coming together in incredible ways for us to be successful," Just continued.

"We thank them from the bottom of our hearts for all they do. We are stronger, better, together because of them, and we hope they will enjoy, re-energize, make new memories and a brighter tomorrow because of this opportunity."

Health First is Brevard County's not-for-profit, community healthcare system. The fully integrated delivery network (IDN) includes health insurance plans, hospitals, a multi-specialty medical group, and outpatient and wellness services. In 2019, Health First provided more than $180 million in community support — a demonstration of the locally owned, not-for-profit organization's commitment to Brevard County and the Space Coast.

Visit HF.org/staywell to learn more about what Health First is doing to combat COVID-19 and the latest information on vaccine availability.