As a longtime volunteer at Beebe Healthcare, I am shocked by the hospital's allowing employees to forgo COVID-19 vaccination. This policy put the fears of a minority of employees over the well-being of the majority of employees, hundreds of volunteers and the entire patient/visitor population.
Beebe speaks of "incentives" to get employees vaccinated. The best incentive is "you will keep your job!"
This policy is also hypocritical. When I applied to be a volunteer (I am a patient guide), I was informed that I must take a tuberculosis test, prove prior vaccination against MMR diseases and have the annual flu shot.
All Beebe employees and volunteers must have an annual flu shot. Hanging from Beebe badges is a tag indicating this year's flu shot was received. The purpose of all these vaccinations is to protect those we come in contact with, especially vulnerable patients.
Beebe suspended its volunteer program when the pandemic hit Delaware. The program was reinitiated two months ago; however, every volunteer seeking to return had to show proof of COVID-19 vaccination.
I did so and returned the first week. In the ensuing weeks, I have become more and more concerned when I hear complaints from Beebe employees, that they are forced to work side by side with non-vaccinated co-workers. People seek medical care at Beebe. I see some of these people who are dangerously vulnerable to possible infection. Many are immuno-compromised due to chronic illness. They trust that the healthcare professionals will not be the ones who spread COVID-19 to them.
Beebe proudly adds to employee/volunteer name tags proof of flu vaccination. Maybe they should also add proof of COVID-19 vaccination. Then all will see who does not have that tag. I would like to know, because I do know that surgical masks and goggles may not be enough to protect me from someone who is endangering me and all who they come in contact with.
Beebe Healthcare, the best incentive to encourage your employees to receive this vaccine is the promise of continued employment.
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