Protesters showed their opposition Saturday to Henry Ford Health Systems' new policy that all employees be vaccinated, but the hospitals' management is standing by it.
Henry Ford Hospital (File photo)
The hospital system is believed to be the first in Michigan to require COVID-19 vaccinations of all its team members, students, volunteers and contractors. That includes those working remotely. The announcement came June 29. Employees have until Sept. 10 to be fully vaccinated.
(COO Bob) Riney said hospital officials expected the decision would be met with opposition, but said that has been "largely eclipsed by the widespread support and feedback" they have received from employees, patients and the communities they serve.
Other Michigan health systems are following suit, including Trinity Health and OSF HealthCare in the Upper Peninsula.
Members of the Michigan Nursing Association bargaining unit are the only staffers not covered by the mandate. Employees with approved medical or religious objections to vaccines also are exempt.
