November 12, 2021

Biden Administration Implements COVID-19 Vaccination Mandates for Healthcare Settings

The Biden administration published two rules Nov. 5, mandating COVID-19 vaccination in the workplace, including in certain healthcare settings. A Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) mandates that healthcare workers at hospitals, ambulatory surgical centers, dialysis facilities, home health agencies and long-term care facilities that participate in Medicare and Medicaid be fully vaccinated by Jan. 4.

A U.S. Department of Labor Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) mandates that employers with 100 or more employees ensure each of their workers is fully vaccinated or is tested for COVID-19 on at least a weekly basis by Jan. 4. The ETS also requires employers to ensure that unvaccinated staff wear a face mask in the workplace and to provide paid time off for employees to get vaccinated.

A provides additional information on the OSHA and CMS requirements. Resources to help employers implement the ETS are on the OSHA . FAQs detailing the CMS IRF are also .

If you have questions or would like more information, contact Gloria Romanelli, Senior Director, Legislative and Regulatory Relations.