An academic medical center in Texas has found a successful formula for enacting a COVID vaccination policy. Here are the steps:
- Establish an ethical framework and hierarchy, including a pyramid of responsibility with patients and families at the top, followed by employees. This will help your organization prioritize the health and safety of those you are responsible for with a focus on avoiding preventable harm.
- Conduct a risk-benefit analysis compliant with professional standards. This can be as simple as asking one question: Do the available vaccines reduce the risk of harm from COVID-19 infection more than they increase the risk of severe advere reactions?
- Make sure policies for religious and medical exemptions are consistent with public health recommendations, as well as state and local laws.
- Provide a inclusive, consistent, and ongoing educational campaign. Be transparent and clear about the process you used to create your policy. Encourage employees to express their concerns and ask your questions; listen and be respectful.
- Watch for and promptly address misinformation. Keep your finger on the pulse of what people are hearing, seeing, reading, and saying; address misinformation, rumors, and conspiracy theories promptly. Use town halls, emails, videos, luncheons, one-on-ones, and more to communication with employees.
- Lead by example. Make sure managers are compliant with the policy.
- Monitor and track vaccination rates.
