02 Aug 2021 Conway Regional to require vaccine for all new hires, leaders

Conway Regional Health System announced that effective Aug. 8, it will require its leadership team, including executive leadership, directors, and managers along with new hires to receive the COVID-19 vaccine.    

All leaders receiving a two-shot series will receive the second dose by the end of August. All new hires receiving a two-shot series will be required to get the second dose of the vaccine within 30 days of employment.    

Officials with the hospital say that currently more than 75 percent of leaders are vaccinated. The COVID-19 vaccine policy will include exemptions for religious and medical reasons in a manner similar to the organization’s flu vaccine policy. Conway Regional, in a practice consistent with several other health systems, requires an annual vaccine for influenza.    

Much like their peers around the state, Conway Regional continues to educate their team members, patients, and the community, on the safety and effectiveness of the COVID-19 vaccine.    

As Arkansas continues to see a rise in community transmission and subsequent hospitalizations, currently 40 percent of the eligible population in Faulkner County are fully vaccinated against COVID-19.  

“This is a decision that has come after much discussion, analysis, and education,” said Matt Troup, president and CEO of Conway Regional. “It’s one we do not take lightly. As the community’s health system for 100 years, we feel strongly that we must lead our community in vaccine adoption and set an example for the communities we serve. We have a responsibility to our patients, to our team members, and to the community to do the right thing. 

“The evidence is clear that the COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective at preventing the spread of the COVID-19 virus, as well as hospitalizations and death.”  

Each week Conway Regional is sharing the number of COVID-19 inpatients, along with the rate of unvaccinated COVID-19 hospitalizations. Since June 1, 2021, 88% of COVID-19 admissions at Conway Regional have been unvaccinated.   

The Arkansas Hospital Association has also issued support for its member hospitals that elect to implement policies requiring staff to receive the vaccine.