Media Statement

Hospitals Stand with Gov. Newsom on Steps to Ensure Health Care Worker, Patient Safety Amid Surge of Delta Variant of COVID-19

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“The new public health order announced today by Gov. Newsom will help ensure that California remains ahead of the curve in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Carmela Coyle, President & CEO of the California Hospital Association. “The unfortunate reality is that COVID-19 is again on the rise nationally, and in California, driven by the highly infectious Delta variant. It is imperative that we all do everything possible to protect patients and our communities from COVID-19 illnesses and death.”

“Everyone should get vaccinated,” Coyle said. “The COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective — and they are free. The evidence is clear — vaccination against COVID-19 has prevented people from becoming seriously ill, requiring hospitalization, or dying from the virus, as well as spreading it to others. To date, 75% of eligible Californians have received at least one dose, with minimal side effects.”

“Requiring health care settings, including hospitals, to verify the vaccination status of all health care workers — and to expect those who are unvaccinated to wear masks and be tested regularly — are important and necessary steps that must be taken in this extraordinary situation,” Coyle said. “The Governor’s announcement is essential to keeping patients and those who care for them safe.”