MICHIGAN — Metro Health has become the latest health system in Michigan to require the COVID-19 vaccine for all its medical staff, contractors, students and volunteers.
A spokesperson confirmed the new policy Friday afternoon.
We’re told the decision was made in light of the more infectious delta variant of the virus, as well as increasing COVID-19 cases nationwide.
Metro Health currently has a staff COVID-19 vaccination rate above 70% but wants to increase it.
“Patients expect to feel safe and protected when receiving care at any of our facilities; vaccines are safe, highly effective and the best way to protect our patients and each other,” Metro Health said.
The health system did not say what the deadline for its employees to receive the vaccine was.
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In a decision based on our commitment to providing the safest possible environment for our patients, employees and the community, we are announcing an organizational-wide COVID-19 vaccination requirement for employees, members of the medical staff, contractors, students and volunteers.
As an organization that respects the individual circumstances of each staff member, our policy will address exemptions and a declination process with protocols for regular COVID-19 testing, mandatory mask use and social distancing.
Although we currently have a staff COVID-19 vaccination rate of over 70%, it is very important to increase the vaccination rate to protect patients and colleagues, especially in light of the more infectious Delta variant and the increasing COVID-19 cases nationwide.
Patients expect to feel safe and protected when receiving care at any of our facilities; vaccines are safe, highly effective and the best way to protect our patients and each other.