Cloud over vaccination status of hundreds of health staff in Wide Bay
A week after deadline, the vaccination status of hundreds of Wide Bay Hospital and Health Service staff remains under a cloud. See the numbers and services impacted.
Fraser Coast
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The vaccination status of hundreds of Wide Bay Hospital and Health Service staff remains unclear a week after a deadline requiring employees to get the jab passed.
As of November 8, there were 285 employees across Bundaberg, Hervey Bay, Maryborough and smaller towns within the WBBHS with no vaccination record out of 4618.
Of these, 130 had lodged an exemption.
There were 147 employees on leave, including maternity and long service, with no vaccination record.
It is understood some of these employees may have lodged an exemption.
There are 123 employees who are in the scope of the directive, have no vaccination record and are not on leave.
It is understood some of these employees may have lodged an exemption.
A spokesman from Queensland Health said as borders began to reopen, the health service needed to know the available workforce was prepared when COVID-19 comes to Queensland.
“Wide Bay has one of the best vaccination rates in Queensland and we’re confident in WBHHS’ ability to respond because of its track record,” the spokeswoman said.
“Service continuity across Wide Bay Hospital and Health Service has been minimally impacted by the transition to mandatory vaccination for our staff.
“Thanks to the staff’s strong support of vaccination, WBHHS was able to plan appropriately and adapt when a small proportion of its staff could no longer come on site.”
The spokesman said Wide Bay’s BreastScreen service may experience disruption due to a reduction in the number of radiographers.
“There will be some delays in accessing breastscreen appointments, but it is expected that the situation will improve and screening targets will be met during the first half of 2022,” he said.
“We will continue to work with staff to find alternative arrangements for those who have received or applied for an exemption.
“This may include taking leave, working remotely or being moved into an alternative temporary role where the vaccination is not mandated.
“Exemption requests are not simple or straight forward.
“A range of evidence and consultation is required depending on the nature of the exemption. For example, clinical consultation is sought for people seeking an exemption for medical reasons.
“Additionally, each exemption application is required to be considered on an individual basis.
“The team is working incredibly hard to process exemption requests as quickly as possible.
“While this is being worked through, these staff will not be in the workplace.
“Staff who are not vaccinated and have not applied for an exemption will not be able to enter a facility where care is provided to undertake their duties.
“These staff will be notified in writing with a show cause letter. Show cause notice lengths of time will vary depending on the individual’s role and situation.”
The health service said it was important to note the latest information could change quickly as vaccination records were continuously updated.
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