Health System sees "merit increases" as a raise. The merit increases for those of us on the lower end of pay (under 30/hr) don't see much difference with a 3% increase. With inflation over the past few years, I've actually find myself with less in my bank account after bills were paid. I've asked my boss for a raise, since I've not gotten anything outside of the measly merit increases, in over 2 years. Makes me feel like I'm not valued and the system doesn't care if I stay.
It's also especially difficult when you learn that new members of your team are starting off at a significantly higher wage than what you started at, which completely negates your own personal growth.
