A review of state laws revealed the following:
• Twenty states have laws that address mandatory influenza vaccination of certain categories of the health workforce.
• All the laws define the healthcare employer that must comply with the law; although few states have included both acute-care hospitals and residential care facilities.
• Most of the laws require employers to allow healthcare employees to decline vaccination by signing a declination statement for a medical contraindication or conflicts due to a religious belief.
The researchers also established a “model law” that states could implement. This law would incorporate six elements: a broad definition of the affected employee, a broad definition of the affected employer, healthcare employer obligations, an identified exemption policy, healthcare employee obligations and an identified standard of care.
Related Articles on Hospital Vaccinations:
Colorado Health Department Looks to Boost Healthcare Employee Vaccinations
National Business Group on Health Urges Providers to Require Flu Vaccinations
Oregon Hospital Association Opposes Proposed Healthcare Employee Vaccination Mandate
At the Becker's 11th Annual IT + Revenue Cycle Conference: The Future of AI & Digital Health, taking place September 14–17 in Chicago, healthcare executives and digital leaders from across the country will come together to explore how AI, interoperability, cybersecurity, and revenue cycle innovation are transforming care delivery, strengthening financial performance, and driving the next era of digital health. Apply for complimentary registration now.
