Effective this month, Knox Community Hospital (KCH) will insist all its employees must be vaccinated against the COVID-19 virus.
“Given the continued prevalence and the recent increase in COVID cases, our goal must be to prevent the spread of the disease and minimize its impact," CEO Bruce White announced in an Aug. 4 press release. "The American Medical Association (among others) identifies and recommends COVID vaccination as a safe and effective way to achieve these goals. It is prudent to protect our patients, visitors and team members, and to lead by example.”
The new requirement applies to clinical and non‐clinical employees at all KCH locations, including Mount Vernon, Centerburg and Fredericktown.
The American Hospital Association, Ohio Hospital Association, America’s Essential Hospitals, American Nurses Association, American College of Physicians, and at least 60 more national organizations have all issued formal statements recommending COVID vaccination for healthcare workers.
Other hospitals throughout Ohio and around the U.S. have also recently established COVID vaccination as a requirement to work. At KCH, personnel performing work at or on behalf of the hospital must achieve and maintain full vaccination status no later than December 1. Similar to the requirement for seasonal flu vaccination implemented years ago, consideration of documented medical requirements or recognized religious belief may be requested.
New employees hired by KCH are encouraged to obtain the vaccine prior to starting employment or as soon as possible thereafter. Scheduled clinics will be conducted to facilitate vaccination for current employees not yet vaccinated.
