“Without Us the Hospitals Wouldn’t Stay Open”: Essential Contributions of Service Workers

Income inequality in the U.S. is on the rise. Attention to the struggles of low-wage workers has increased over the last decade. Spurred by the Fight for $15 and other organizing efforts, this attention has produced increases in the minimum wage in numerous places as well as pressure on large employers to raise wages. Much research on raising wages has focused on macroeconomic effects. However, it is also important to examine effects on workers’ lives. Data collected to document the effects of increasing wages also reveals the meaning and importance of their work. In illustrating workers’ challenges, as well as their pride in and dedication to their work, this brief enhances understandings of the essential contributions workers make to effective hospitals and healthy communities.