Local healthcare workers will be required to be vaccinated against COVID-19 by the end of the month to help ensure the safety of colleagues and patients in all public and private hospitals.
Health Minister Brad Hazzard said under the Public Health Order, health staff must have a first dose of vaccine by September 30, and be fully vaccinated by November 30, or at least have their second appointment booked to continue working.
“Many health workers in NSW are already vaccinated but if all of our staff are vaccinated it will provide greater protection for patients, visitors and other health staff,” Hazzard said.
“The public and private health systems have a responsibility to implement every possible measure to provide a safe work environment for their staff and most importantly, safe circumstances for their patients.”
However, Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast, Adam Crouch, said many staff on the Coast had already been vaccinated.
“There are approximately 5,000 staff working in the Central Coast Local Health District and the vast majority of these have already received both doses of the COVID-19 vaccine,” Crouch said.
“I believe that everyone should be vaccinated against COVID-19.
“Given how contagious and transmissible the Delta strain is, it’s clear that vaccination is the only path forward to freedom.
“Both brands of the vaccine are safe, effective and free.
“Both brands of the vaccine also reduce the chance of death by over 90 per cent.”
The move follows National Cabinet’s decision in June to mandate the COVID-19 vaccination for all aged care workers.
NSW Health said they have consulted with unions, peak bodies and private health providers regarding the decision to mandate the vaccine.
Staff will be required to provide evidence they have received their first dose to their employer by September 30, or they will be excluded from the workplace.
Those who have a medical contraindication will be exempt if a medical practitioner confirms the medical contraindication.
Source:
Media release, Aug 26
Minister for Health, Brad Hazzard
Media statement, Aug 31
Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast, Adam Crouch
No Jab No Job