Vaccination and Booster Questions
NYSHFA|NYSCAL has received questions regarding the Dear Administrator Letter (DAL) issued by the Department on January 21, 2022 and FAQs, issued on January 25, 2022 addressing the booster requirement. These documents can be found at: https://coronavirus.health.ny.gov/covid-19-guidance-repository
The DAL stated that personnel that were ELIGIBLE were required to receive the vaccine booster by February 21, 2022 and those who were not currently eligible were required to receive the booster within 30 days of becoming eligible.
Several providers had questions about hiring personnel and what was required at the time of hire. Providers can hire new people with one vaccine (required or medical exemption ) but if the person is already due for the 2nd vaccine prior to hire, they should get the 2nd vaccine.
Key points:
- The facility must have a vaccination policy and procedure in place. Documentation of all employees’ vaccinations completed and/or eligibility notes are required, as well as any followed up, otherwise, the facility is at risk for a citation.
- After Feb 21, 2022, any staff person eligible for the booster needs to get it unless they have a medical exemption. Facilities should ensure documentation is complete.
