United Health Centers President and CEO Colleen Curtis speaks at a news conference this pas summer. File Photo

Medical providers at United Health Centers (UHC) were all smiles as they announced a bit of good news for employees Friday.

For the second time in two years, the Fresno-based Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) announced a raise for entry-level employees to $16 per hour.

The decision was made earlier this month, and was formally announced at a press conference in their new Northwest Fresno headquarters.

Colleen Curtis, president and CEO of UHC, said this raises the annual entry-level salary to $33,000. During the presentation, she explained that that FQHCs help those who are economically vulnerable, but that they also recognize the needs of their employees.

“Our staff is also vulnerable to the rising cost of fuel and living expenses,” Curtis said. “And it’s our intention to provide the best care of our staff as well as our patients.”

Staff also received a raise 18 months ago, one that brought their wages to $15 per hour.