Carilion Clinic announced Wednesday, that employees vaccinated by Oct. 1 will be recognized with $150 in their Oct. 15 paycheck.
After Oct. 1, those who choose not to get vaccinated will be tested weekly for COVID-19. The testing requirement will be re-evaluated regularly based on the positivity rate and other factors in the region.
“Our top priority is to keep our communities healthy,” said Jeanne Armentrout, RN, executive vice president and chief administrative officer for Carilion. “Getting the vaccine is a crucial way our employees can continue to fight back against this deadly virus. We wish to recognize the high vaccination rate among our staff and encourage more vaccinations.”
The decision to recognize vaccinated employees was made following careful consideration and consultation with provider leadership and public health peers.
“More than 70 percent of our workforce and 99 percent of our physicians have already received the COVID-19 vaccine,” said Armentrout. “Vaccination is the best way to protect against severe illness. For those unable to receive the vaccine and those still considering it, weekly testing combined with proper use of masks allows us to protect our patients, visitors, and staff.”
Masks and/or other personal protective equipment as well as daily attestations are currently required for any employee engaging with colleagues, patients, or visitors at Carilion.