As employers in healthcare settings prepare to administer the vaccine to healthcare personnel, they are likely grappling with new practical considerations. Undoubtedly, one of the most widespread challenges is how to manage employees with potential post-vaccination systemic signs and symptoms (“signs and symptoms”), without unnecessarily imposing work restrictions to the detriment of patient care demands. Towards these ends, the CDC has issued a series of considerations healthcare employers should review as they develop policies to balance these competing concerns. Below is an overview:
- Vaccinate HCP preceding 1-2 days off from work.
- Stagger both doses of the vaccine. Don’t vaccinate an entire department or unit at the same time.
- Educate HCP about potential signs and symptoms and options to mitigate them.
- Assess HCP exhibiting signs and symptoms consistent with the CDC’s recommended approaches.
- Encourage HCP to report signs and symptoms by offering non-punitive paid leave.
For assistance drafting your institution’s COVID-19 vaccination policy generally, or specifically addressing HCP with signs and symptoms, please contact Sarah Skubas, Mary McCudden, or the Jackson Lewis attorney with whom you usually work.