Hospital in New York fired 1400 employees for refusing to vaccinate against COVID-19
'06.10.2021'
Nurgul Sultanova-Chetin
Northwell Health, the largest healthcare provider in New York state, announced on October 4 that 1400 employees - less than 2 percent of its workforce - have refused to receive the coronavirus vaccine and have been laid off. It is reported by New York Times.
New York is demanding more than 650 employees in public hospitals and nursing homes to be vaccinated against COVID-000 or leave office. The requirement came into effect last week, prompting tens of thousands of employees to get vaccinated. Others have filed lawsuits in courts. Statewide courtrooms now determine when and how to allow exceptions to this requirement.
New York's health requirement is particularly stringent. Employees are unable to get weekly testing for COVID-19, and they also cannot get exemption from vaccination on religious grounds, although this is now being contested in court.
According to New York State data, as of September 29, 87% of hospital workers were vaccinated.
The possibility of a shortage of personnel was known in advance
The possibility of widespread staff shortages loomed even before the vaccination requirement came into effect. Governor Katie Hockool declared a state of emergency last week that will allow her involve the troops of the National Guard to perform some tasks in medical institutions. Also, New York State is looking for ways to expedite visas for medical workers from overseas and recruit newly graduated or retired medical workers to fill gaps.
On the subject: New York spent $ 25 million on vaccination awards to residents
So far, the number of health workers in New York who have quit their jobs is relatively small. It is unlikely that this will result in a staff shortage that could jeopardize patient care. However, the governor's contingency plans reflect fears that New York City hospitals may be at risk.
Northwell Health employs over 76 people. The company said that vaccinating all of its employees will enable the provider “to deliver exceptional care without interruption in all hospitals. It will also allow all institutions to remain open and fully operational. ”
