(Facebook Photo/Banner Health)
PHOENIX — Arizona’s largest hospital system announced Tuesday that all employees are required to be vaccinated against COVID-19 by Nov. 1.
Banner Health President and CEO Peter Fine said the decision was made “to reduce risk for our patients, their families, visitors and each other.”
“Safety is an absolute top priority and the COVID vaccine mandate reflects that commitment,” Fine said in a press release. “The vaccine data has fully supported the safety and efficacy to prevent disease and reduce its severity.
“There is overwhelming evidence for us to act on behalf of the communities that rely on us to care for and protect them.”
Banner added that the rise of the Delta variant and preparation for flu season contributed to the decision.
More details on the program, including an exemption request process, will be made available at a later date.
The hospital system, which is in Arizona and five other states, employs about 52,000 staff.
Banner earlier this month introduced an incentive program for staff who are fully vaccinated against COVID-19, offering $10,000 prizes to 10 employees.