Empath Health Introduces New Paid Parental Leave Policy

CLEARWATER, Florida—Empath Health, a Florida-based hospice and health care organization, announced the launch of a paid parental leave policy, which the company said is a milestone that underscores its dedication to colleagues and the mission of full life care. Beginning on Wednesday, Jan. 1, the company’s eligible employees who are welcoming a new child through birth, adoption or foster care will be able to receive six fully paid weeks off, allowing them to focus on their families.

The company said the policy is inclusive of both birth parents and non-birth parents, reflecting its belief that all parents deserve the time and support to navigate this transformative chapter of life.

“When my children were born, this kind of benefit wasn’t available to me,” said Jonathan Fleece, CEO of Empath Health. “Providing this support to our team is about more than policy—it’s about embodying our values and strengthening the extraordinary care we’re known for.”

The policy was created by a group of 100 team members and colleagues in an effort to prioritize workplace policies that balance compassionate care with organizational sustainability. The company said its paid parental leave policy aims to support health care organizations that recognize care begins with the workforce.