Grey Bruce Health Services has a new COVID-19 vaccination policy. The corporation reported 99% of their physicians and 96% of their staff are fully vaccinated against COVID-19.
The hospital corporation's COVID-19 vaccination policy required all staff and physicians to be fully vaccinated by November 25th , or be placed on unpaid leave. However a review of the vaccination rate and the risks has resulted in an updated policy. Now anyone who is not fully vaccinated, and does not have an approved medical exemption by December 3 will no longer be employed with GBHS.
A media release says there is minimal impact on services as a result of this policy, as unvaccinated staff are spread across all sites and services.
The GBHS Board of Directors said it remains committed to the goal of 100% compliance. GBHS has been working with employees and physicians over the past few months to provide education and opportunities to discuss the science behind vaccination.
“We must be able to reassure the public that we are providing care in a safe, evidence-based environment,” said Gary Sims, President and CEO of GBHS. “In hospitals, where people are sick and vulnerable, that means wearing personal protective equipment, practicing physical distancing, and being fully vaccinated. I sincerely hope that in the coming weeks all of our employees will chose vaccination so that they can continue doing the work they do so well.”
GBHS recently announced that all Care Partners (visitors) must show proof of vaccination or a valid medical exemption to enter a GBHS facility. This policy took effect November 15 and is consistent with many other hospitals across the province. This policy does not apply to patients. Anyone who needs hospital care or has an appointment should not delay, regardless of vaccination status. Exemptions to the Care Partner visitor policy can be made for children; those accompanying a child; visitors for those in labour or at end of life; and those with accessibility needs.