Baptist Health Systems has notified staff that it will begin requiring all employees at its five San Antonio hospitals to be vaccinated for COVID-19.
This policy will require that all San Antonio BHS staff, including physicians, medical residents, fellows, trainees, contractors, medical staff, students and volunteers, be vaccinated with an FDA authorized COVID-19 vaccine.
“This decision is in keeping with our commitment to providing a safe environment for our patients, visitors, employees and the people of the communities we serve,” said Matt Stone, Group CEO for Baptist Health System. “The science shows us the COVID vaccines are effective, safe and your best protection against the virus. Our goal is to do all we can to save lives and slow the spread of COVID-19 and eventually bring an end to the pandemic.”
“Our patients put their trust in us to protect them and provide the care they expect and deserve,” said Lynnette Watkins, MD, Group Chief Medical Officer for Baptist. “It is critical that we take this step to help ensure we maintain their trust and keep them as well as our employees and medical staff safe and not put them at unnecessary risk from this deadly virus, especially in light of concerns related to the Delta variant.”
“As the community’s leading health care provider, Baptist Health System has a responsibility to lead by example on this critical issue. We hope our efforts help to inspire people in the community to realize how important it is that they get vaccinated to protect themselves and their loved ones,” said Stone.
Individuals seeking an exception for medical or religious reasons may do so but will be required to take strict precautions that may include frequent testing.