Response to Biden Administration Vaccination Mandate from Nye Health Services CEO, Russ Peterson
President Biden announced recently that he is asking the Department of Health and Human Services to mandate vaccinations of all employees of nursing facilities. There is much discussion going on behind the scenes on what this means, how it will be implemented, exceptions to vaccinations and timing of implementation. What we know currently is that this only applies to staff in nursing facilities. Assisted living and independent campuses were not included in this recommended mandate.
Vaccinations have proven to be a very effective way to protect yourself, your families, the team members on the campus and our residents. We highly encourage everyone to get vaccinated. While we also recognize an individual’s choice in making this decision for yourself, we will be required to comply with federal or state mandates as they are implemented.
Last week the FDA gave full approval to the Pfizer vaccine for anyone 16 and older and approval for the Moderna vaccine is expected to come soon. Our campuses vaccination rates exceed the rate of vaccinations nationally. Over 93% of our residents and 75% of our team members are currently vaccinated compared to the national average of 83% of residents and 61% of team members. We are committed to protecting the safety of our residents and team members every day. If the recent news raises questions, please reach out. We will keep you informed as we hear more.
Thank you for being part of the Nye family.