Posted on: July 26, 2024
On Friday morning (July 26), BC's Provincial Health Officer (PHO), Dr. Bonnie Henry, issued an order to end the COVID-19 public health emergency and rescinded many remaining health Orders announced earlier in the pandemic.
Dr. Henry noted that the evidence now shows the risk of spread of respiratory illness from COVID-19 has been reduced through a combination of natural immunity and immunization uptake. Included in the Orders being rescinded is the requirement for health authority staff, medical staff and volunteers to be vaccinated against COVID-19. Concurrent with this decision, the Ministry of Health is introducing new requirements on the collection of immunity and immunization status of health-care workers to help keep people safe.
WHAT THIS MEANS
Reporting of immunity and immunization status will be required for the following: influenza, measles, hepatitis B, pertussis, rubella, mumps and varicella (or chickenpox), in addition to COVID-19. While the reporting requirement takes effect on July 26, we acknowledge it will take some time to update our processes to fully implement this decision. Island Health's first focus will be to ensure new hires meet these expanded requirements. Over time, all Island Health staff, medical staff and volunteers will be required to report their immunity and immunization status.
Staff who were no longer able to work for Island Health due to the PHO's mandatory COVID-19 vaccine order are now welcome to apply for vacant positions they qualify for. Medical Staff who were impacted will be able to apply for privileges.
Our Human Resources and Medical Affairs teams are actively working to support the implementation of the work required by rescinding the new requirements. More information on the next steps will be available in the coming days and weeks. If you have questions in the meantime, please speak with your leader who can connect with their HR Business Partner, or in the case of Medical Affairs please email medstaffcommunications@islandhealth.ca.
UNITED IN OUR C.A.R.E. VALUES
The implementation of the mandatory vaccine order a few years ago generated significant public debate, and we were not immune to that debate. People have strong and divergent opinions on this topic.
Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic we frequently turned to our C.A.R.E. values to help guide us through challenging times and discussions. Today, with the order being rescinded and the likely return of some staff and medical staff, we may see additional debate.
I ask you to continue to reflect on our C.A.R.E values when you discuss today's decision by the PHO, and when you interact with staff, medical staff or volunteers who may return to Island Health with the withdrawal of the mandatory vaccination order. Your beliefs on this issue may differ from your colleagues, but our shared commitment to those we serve and to each other helps define who we are.
When we focus on our values and work together as a team, it helps our patients, clients and residents receive the care they deserve and expect from Island Health.