(File Photo: Canadian Press)

By Abby Zieverink

Mandatory Vaccine

AHS mandatory vaccine policy for employees extends to December 13

Nov 29, 2021 | 5:23 PM

Alberta Health Services has extended its mandatory COVID-19 vaccination policy to December 13 for all AHS employees.

This was announced on November 29, as the provincial government is directing AHS to also introduce proof of negative COVID-19 test program in select communities.

This negative test program will be temporarily included as part of the organization’s Immunization of Workers for COVID-19 policy, in which government officials say will be implemented at sites considered to be a “significant risk” of service shortages due to a lack of unvaccinated employees.

“I’ve heard from many Albertans, especially in smaller communities, who are worried this policy will impact patient care,” said Minister of Health Jason Copping.

“We fully support AHS’ immunization policy, and I appreciate the tens of thousands of healthcare workers who have made the right choice to get vaccinated.”

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This directive is about protecting patient care, primarily in rural areas, which will always be my top priority,” he added.

Under AHS’ current policy, employees who chose not to be fully immunized and have not been granted an accommodation would be put on an unpaid leave of absence.

However, starting December 13, unvaccinated AHS employees at select healthcare sites will be able to temporarily provide a proof of a negative COVID-19 test.

As of November 29, 96 per cent of AHS full-time and part-time employees and more than 99 per cent of physicians have submitted proof of immunization. Ninety-nine per cent of intensive care unit staff are fully immunized.

Officials say AHS healthcare sites will be selected as part of the temporary program based on evaluations regarding staffing needs.

A full list of sites where testing is taking place will be announced by the province by December 13.

The government says this program will be reviewed by March 2022.