T-R FILE PHOTO - UnityPoint Health employees in Marshalltown will need to become fully vaccinated against COVID-19 by Nov. 1.

UnityPoint Health is requiring employees to be vaccinated against COVID-19.

More than 33,000 employed UnityPoint Health team members, whether they provide direct care to patients or not, will need to be fully vaccinated by Nov. 1 this year.

“We remain incredibly grateful to our health care providers, who have seen the devastation of COVID-19 up close and personal over the past 18 months,” President and CEO of UnityPoint Health Clay Holderman said. “After thoughtful consideration, we believe this vaccination requirement will help keep our team members, patients and communities as healthy as possible, so we can focus on what we do best–delivering exceptional care to those we serve.”

Employees who choose not to receive a COVID-19 vaccination will be subject to voluntary resignation or termination, but can request exemption for medical or religious reasons. This practice is consistent with UnityPoint Health’s policies for other required vaccines. Pregnant team members will be strongly encouraged to get vaccinated, however a temporary deferral will be available.

“The COVID vaccine is safe and effective in terms of preventing severe disease, hospitalization and death,” Chief Clinical Officer of UnityPoint Health Dave Williams said. “The continued wave of infections throughout the country make it clear we are not done fighting this pandemic, which means more people need to get vaccinated, especially before an anticipated increase of respiratory illnesses this fall.”