Zero healthcare facilities close in NYS after vaccine mandate takes effect: Hochul

Hochul
Gov. Kathy Hochul speaks at the Queens Museum on Sept. 27, 2021. Photo credit Kevin P. Coughlin / Office of the Governor

NEW YORK (WCBS 880) — Zero healthcare facilities in New York State have been reported closed since the state’s vaccination mandate went into effect this week, Gov. Kathy Hochul announced Wednesday.

According to the governor, vaccination numbers in healthcare facilities across the state continue to climb, and staffing issues remain minimal enough that hospitals, nursing homes and other facilities have all been able to remain open.

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“Our greatest responsibility is to protect our most vulnerable, and ensuring that the health care workers who care for our loved ones are vaccinated is critical to keeping New Yorkers safe,” Governor Hochul said.  “I am grateful to the facilities, unions, and health care workers who took important steps to prepare and protect New Yorkers, and we are working with facilities to ensure they remain operational. We will continue to monitor developments and work with stakeholders to troubleshoot any issues, and I stand ready to take additional action as needed.”

The governor has directed a 24/7 Operations Center, led by the state Department of Health, to oversee staffing issues across the state.

“Since the mandate went into effect, Operations Center subject matter experts have worked with impacted facilities to troubleshoot and identify solutions,” the governor’s office said.

As of Wednesday morning, 87% of hospital staffs have been fully vaccinated. Over 90% of staff have received at least one dose.

Meanwhile, 92% of all nursing home staffers have received at least one COVID-19 vaccine and 89% of adult care facilities staff have received at least one shot.

Featured Image Photo Credit: Kevin P. Coughlin / Office of the Governor