September 1, 2021
Dear Employees, Residents, Families and Friends,
The regulations that govern all adult care facilities in NY, the Official Compilation of Codes, Rules and Regulations of the State of New York, were amended last week. We are now mandated to continuously require personnel to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19, with the first dose for current personnel received by October 7, 2021. Personnel is defined as all persons employed or affiliated with us, whether paid or unpaid, including but not limited to employees, contract staff, students and volunteers, and any individuals who engage in activities that could potentially expose other personnel or residents to COVID-19.
The only allowable exemption from this regulation is a medical exemption. A licensed physician or certified nurse practitioner would have to certify that the COVID-19 vaccine is detrimental to the health of the employee, in accordance with generally accepted medical standards. The nature and duration of the exemption must also be stated.
Religious exemptions are not allowed under this regulation.
The management team is urging employees to comply with the regulation as we do not want to lose any of our valuable, beloved employees. We are also asking any staff who plan to decline the vaccination to let us know as soon as possible. We are prepared to actively recruit for any open positions as necessary, so we do not incur any staffing shortages.
Please let me know if you have any questions or would like a copy of the regulation.
Sincerely,
Caroline Thompson
Executive Director
