Providence requires all caregivers to comply with COVID-19 vaccination policy

Caregivers must be fully vaccinated or follow additional protocols, such as testing and enhanced safety measures

RENTON, WA –  Providence, one of the largest health systems in the nation, today announced that all caregivers will be required to comply with its COVID-19 vaccination policy. The move comes as the health system is seeing patient volumes rising due to the Delta variant and unvaccinated individuals accounting for the vast majority of its COVID-19 inpatients.

“Until vaccinations reach critical mass in the U.S., we will continue to see ongoing outbreaks that put the most vulnerable members of our communities at greater risk. Having been on the front lines since the beginning, we know this is not sustainable for our communities or our caregivers. We also know the COVID-19 vaccines remain safe and effective tools for preventing severe illness from the virus,” said Rod Hochman, M.D., president and CEO of Providence.

“As one of the largest health systems in the country, we have an opportunity to lead by example. That is why it’s imperative that every caregiver get vaccinated against COVID-19. Not only will it help us keep each other and our patients safe, it will also help ensure we are doing our part to put the pandemic behind us,” Dr. Hochman said.

After careful deliberation, including an ethical discernment, leaders from across the family of organizations have agreed to the following key actions. These steps are in keeping with Providence’s Mission, vision and values; and its commitment to safety and quality.  

  • All caregivers are required, where permitted by state law, to get vaccinated and show proof of vaccination. Those unable to be vaccinated will be required to sign a declination and follow additional protocols, such as enhanced COVID testing, mandatory vaccine-related education/discussions, and/or other infection prevention requirements in accordance with ministry policy, CDC or state and local public health government mandates may be required. All caregivers must comply with the policy by Sept. 30. Please note Providence’s California facilities have an earlier deadline due to state law.
  • Providence is placing a moratorium on large indoor gatherings and non-essential business travel until the organization has a better understanding of the latest wave of COVID-19.
  • Universal masking remains in effect in Providence hospitals and patient-care areas. The health system is also reinstating this policy in non-patient care settings.

If Providence caregivers have questions about the COVID vaccine, they are encouraged to talk with their health provider or caregiver health services for assistance. Caregivers can also find (and share) useful resources information about the vaccine on the Providence website or on the CDC Vaccine Finder site.

“During the pandemic, public trust in local health care professionals has grown tremendously thanks to our dedicated caregivers. We remain one of the few sources that people rely on for credible information, and we have a responsibility to play a leadership role when it comes to the health and safety of our communities. Thank you for continuing to be here for our communities and for all you’re doing to help us lead the way out of this crisis – including leading by example by getting vaccinated and encouraging those who are hesitant to do the same,” Dr. Hochman said.

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