COVID vaccination policy for hospital employees in the workplace

POMEROY–The Garfield County Hospital District board of directors heard discussion on a policy to require staff to receive Covid-19 vaccinations at their meeting on August 2. The Washington State Hospital Association has advised hospitals throughout the state to create this policy. The policy is still in drafting stages, with no specific wording decided yet.

An exemption process is planned for the employees who choose not to get a vaccine. "It's everybody's personal decision," Co-CEO Jayd Keener said. "It's still your choice." Board member Mike Field argued against the policy. "We can't base a solid policy on something we don't understand," he said, citing the lack of firm scientific evidence surrounding Covid-19 vaccines.

The announced intent behind the policy is to provide an incentive to vaccinate, as well as to be a jump ahead of possible federal or state mandates.

Co-CEO Mat Slaybaugh announced the ultrasound equipment ready for the go-live date of Aug. 4. At least one patient is scheduled.

Slaybaugh also announced that the hospital has been offered a market analysis and debt capacity study through the National Rural Health Association, paid for by the United States Department of Agriculture. The estimated cost of such a study is $25,000-$40,000.

The Co-CEOs Keener and Slaybaugh have been invited to speak at a South East Washington Economic Development Association meeting at the Spinners Hall on August 23. They will be speaking about how planned economic programs will affect the hospital.

Board member Steve Cannon announced the finance committee is changing its payroll company from ADP to Paychecks. The two companies do not differ greatly in cost, but Paychecks is expected to save time through its use of automated systems rather than direct input of numbers.