This post has been archived and contains information that may be out of date.
On Sept. 9, the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) released All Facilities Letter (AFL) 21-34, which further clarifies implementation of the Aug. 5 state health order that requires health care worker vaccination by Sept. 30.
Of note, the AFL states:
- The employer may request documentation of a medical exemption or a religious exemption in accordance with federal and state anti-discrimination law.
- For staff who test positive, hospitals should follow AFL 21-08.4, “Guidance on Quarantine for Health Care Personnel (HCP) Exposed to SARS-CoV-2.” Twice-weekly or weekly testing is not necessary during quarantine.
- Operators of health care facilities must ensure vaccination records comply with CDPH Guidance for Vaccine Records Guidelines & Standards and contain the following information: full name, date of birth, vaccine manufacturer, and date of vaccine administration (for first dose and, if applicable, second dose).
- If a contractor or vendor has entered into an agreement with the health care facility to verify and document vaccination/exemption status or test results for its workers, the agreement must also require the contractor or vendor to maintain vaccination records and provide them to public health officials no later than the next business day after receiving a request. The operator of the facility must maintain a record of the agreement on site.
- Facilities are required to maintain records demonstrating compliance with the vaccine and testing requirements of the July 26 and Aug. 5 public health orders. Any facilities that do not present records demonstrating compliance may be subject to enforcement actions by CDPH. CDPH recommends facilities update their policies and procedures to address vaccination and documentation requirements.
See the AFL for additional details. In addition, CHA has developed FAQs to support members in implementing these health orders.
