job. will more health care providers workers to get

8
5/26/2021 Chicago assisted living company tells workers to get vaccinated or find another job - Chicago Tribune https://www.chicagotribune.com/coronavirus/vaccine/ct-prem-coronavirus-vaccine-health-care-companies-firing-unvaccinated-people-20210526-itv456bnyfc7fmstbd… 1/8 ADVERTISEMENT COVID-19 VACCINE CORONAVIRUS Chicago assisted living company tells workers to get vaccinated or find another job. Will more health care providers follow? By LISA SCHENCKER CHICAGO TRIBUNE | MAY 26, 2021 Thank you for supporting our journalism. This article is available exclusively for our subscribers, who help fund our work at the Chicago Tribune. TODAY'S TOP VIDEOS AP Top Stories May 26 A Subscribers, get Chicago's top newsletter Sign up for Daywatch

Upload: others

Post on 07-Apr-2022

1 views

Category:

Documents


0 download

TRANSCRIPT

5262021 Chicago assisted living company tells workers to get vaccinated or find another job - Chicago Tribune

httpswwwchicagotribunecomcoronavirusvaccinect-prem-coronavirus-vaccine-health-care-companies-firing-unvaccinated-people-20210526-itv456bnyfc7fmstbdhellip 18

ADVERTISEMENT

COVID-19 VACCINE CORONAVIRUS

Chicago assisted living company tellsworkers to get vaccinated or find anotherjob Will more health care providersfollow

By LISA SCHENCKERCHICAGO TRIBUNE | MAY 26 2021

Thank you for supporting our journalism This article is available exclusively for oursubscribers who help fund our work at the Chicago Tribune

TODAYS TOP VIDEOS

AP Top Stories May 26 A

Subscribers get Chicagos top newsletter Sign up for Daywatch

5262021 Chicago assisted living company tells workers to get vaccinated or find another job - Chicago Tribune

httpswwwchicagotribunecomcoronavirusvaccinect-prem-coronavirus-vaccine-health-care-companies-firing-unvaccinated-people-20210526-itv456bnyfc7fmstbdhellip 28

When Melissa Fisher learned shersquod have to get vaccinated to keep her job she triedto fight it

Fisher who works in an assisted living and memory care facility run by Chicago-based Enlivant gave the company a letter from her pastor explaining her religiousobjection Fisher also volunteered to get tested for COVID-19 each week ratherthan be vaccinated

But Enlivant stood firm telling her in a May 21 email that her request to forgovaccination was denied because of the nature of her job and ldquothe threat to yourselfand others from remaining unvaccinatedrdquo

Fisher expects her last day will be May 31

ADVERTISING

Subscribers get Chicagos top newsletter Sign up for Daywatch

SECTIONSJumble Daily amp Crossword

Play NowLOG IN

5262021 Chicago assisted living company tells workers to get vaccinated or find another job - Chicago Tribune

httpswwwchicagotribunecomcoronavirusvaccinect-prem-coronavirus-vaccine-health-care-companies-firing-unvaccinated-people-20210526-itv456bnyfc7fmstbdhellip 38

A syringe of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine is preparedfor recipients on Feb 14 2021 at Steinmetz High Schoolin Chicago (Brian Cassella Chicago Tribune)

ADVERTISEMENT

ldquoI just thought they would honor my freedom of religion my rights but apparentlywe donrsquot have that right anymorerdquo said Fisher who is an apostolic holinessChristian Enlivant has more than 200 facilities across the country including inRockford and Joliet Fisher who works at an Enlivant facility in Tennessee helpsresidents with daily tasks such as dressing and going to the bathroom

Workplace vaccination requirementsare expected to become increasinglycontentious as more offices reopenand the issue could be especiallypressing in the health care industrywhere employees often work closelywith elderly or vulnerable patients

ldquoI think if any type of employer willbe mandating the vaccine it will be

in the health care spacerdquo said Margo Wolf OrsquoDonnell a partner and co-chair of thelabor and employment group at law firm Benesch in Chicago

According to guidance from the Equal Employment Opportunity Commissionemployees of any industry can ask to be exempted from vaccination requirementsbecause of sincerely held religious beliefs or because of disabilities But legalexperts say employers can still require the shots if an unvaccinated person would

Subscribers get Chicagos top newsletter Sign up for Daywatch

5262021 Chicago assisted living company tells workers to get vaccinated or find another job - Chicago Tribune

httpswwwchicagotribunecomcoronavirusvaccinect-prem-coronavirus-vaccine-health-care-companies-firing-unvaccinated-people-20210526-itv456bnyfc7fmstbdhellip 48

pose a direct threat to others in the workplace or if accommodating him or herwould be an undue burden

Enlivant is requiring its workers to get at least their first vaccine shots by June 1spokesman Jeremy Ross said in a statement The company evaluates requests forreligious or medical exceptions on a case-by-case basis and accommodates thoseemployees if it can do so safely he said

ldquoWe provide direct care to vulnerable senior residents who trust us to provide asafe and healthy living environmentrdquo Ross said in the statement ldquoWe are equallydedicated to providing a safe and healthy work environment for our valuedemployees These are our first priorities and the COVID vaccine is key to ensuringsuccess toward these prioritiesrdquo

So far few Illinois health care companies are requiring employee vaccinationsMany have stayed away from mandating vaccines for workers because the shotshave received emergency use authorization but not full approval from the USFood and Drug Administration Pfizer said recently it hoped to secure full approvalin the coming months

Many agencies that provide home health care may revisit the issue of COVID-19vaccine requirements once the shots gain full approval said Sara Ratcliffeexecutive director of the Illinois HomeCare and Hospice Council

In the hospital community ldquotherersquos a lot of discussionrdquo about it said Danny Chuna spokesman for the Illinois Health and Hospital Association

The short supply of health care workers has made some health care companiessuch as long-term care facilities hesitant to require the vaccine

ldquoBecause of staffing pressures the sector faces itrsquos hard to say Irsquom going to mandateit and then lose another four (certified nursing assistants) you desperately need

Subscribers get Chicagos top newsletter Sign up for Daywatch

5262021 Chicago assisted living company tells workers to get vaccinated or find another job - Chicago Tribune

httpswwwchicagotribunecomcoronavirusvaccinect-prem-coronavirus-vaccine-health-care-companies-firing-unvaccinated-people-20210526-itv456bnyfc7fmstbdhellip 58

who are caring for residentsrdquo said Matt Hartman executive director of the IllinoisHealth Care Association

At least a couple lawsuits challenging workplace vaccine mandates by employersoutside of the health care industry have been filed in federal court in other statesbut no decisions have been reached in those cases said Gregory Abrams a partnerat Faegre Drinker Biddle amp Reath in Chicago

Abrams expects to see more such lawsuits

ldquoI think as employees return to work and vaccines become more common and moreexpected I would expect more employees potentially to push the enveloperdquo hesaid

Fisher the Tennessee woman said she is one of about a half dozen workers at herfacility who donrsquot want to get vaccinated and are losing their jobs Enlivantspokesman Ross declined to say how many of the companyrsquos workers across thecountry are refusing shots or if any were in Illinois

Fisherrsquos objection to the vaccination is two-fold Shersquos worried about the long-termeffects of the vaccine Fisher said she also believes requirements to get vaccinescould be a first step toward the ldquomark of the beastrdquo an apocalyptic reference fromthe Book of Revelation

She said she would never endanger the people for whom she cares and she wearsmasks and gloves She doesnrsquot think it makes sense for Enlivant to require her toget vaccinated when outside health care workers and visitors are allowed in thefacility without proof of vaccination

ldquoI understand that Irsquom dealing with the elderly and I donrsquot take that lightlyrdquo Fishersaid ldquoTheyrsquore my family and Irsquom not going to do anything to jeopardize themrdquo

Fisher said she plans to start a new job June 8

Subscribers get Chicagos top newsletter Sign up for Daywatch

5262021 Chicago assisted living company tells workers to get vaccinated or find another job - Chicago Tribune

httpswwwchicagotribunecomcoronavirusvaccinect-prem-coronavirus-vaccine-health-care-companies-firing-unvaccinated-people-20210526-itv456bnyfc7fmstbdhellip 68

Lisa SchenckerChicago Tribune

Lisa Schencker is a Tribune business reporter covering health care She writes about patientshospitals health insurers and pharmaceutical companies Before joining the Tribune in 2016she worked at Modern Healthcare and at daily newspapers across the country including theSalt Lake Tribune for seven years

QUICKEN LOANS | SPONSORED

Leave your 30-Year Mortgage behind if you owe less than$356K (Whats holding you back)

Learn More

WOLF amp SHEPHERD | SPONSORED

BLAST AUXILIARY | SPONSORED

NFL Star Rob Gronkowski Loves These Shoes

How To Cool Down Any Room in Minutes (Try Tonight)

Can you pay off debt and save money Find out

NERDWALLET | SPONSOREDPet Parents Take this Quick Quiz to Save on Dog Food

BLUE BUFFALO | SPONSORED

CHICAGO TRIBUNE

CHICAGO TRIBUNE

Fox News stars Sean Hannity Tucker Carlson and fired anchor Ed Henry named in sexual harassment lawsuit

By DAVID BAUDERJohnny Depp says feces in bed was last straw in marriage to Amber Heard

By JILL LAWLESS

NY DAILY NEWS

Vanessa Bryant responds to momrsquos lsquohurtfulrsquo lawsuit says Kobelsquowould be so disappointedrsquo

You May Like by TaboolaSponsored Links Subscribers get Chicagos top newsletter Sign up for Daywatch

5262021 Chicago assisted living company tells workers to get vaccinated or find another job - Chicago Tribune

httpswwwchicagotribunecomcoronavirusvaccinect-prem-coronavirus-vaccine-health-care-companies-firing-unvaccinated-people-20210526-itv456bnyfc7fmstbdhellip 78

CONNECT

TRIBUNE PUBLISHING

New York Daily News

Orlando Sentinel

The Morning Call of Pa

Daily Press of Va

The Daily Meal

The Baltimore Sun

Sun Sentinel of Fla

Hartford Courant

The Virginian-Pilot

Studio 1847

COMPANY INFO

Careers

Help Center

About us

Privacy Policy

Ultimate Pet Nutrition

The Wallet Watcher

EliteSingles

Starscope

If Your Cat Vomits (Do This Every Day)

7 Discounts Seniors Only Get If They Ask

The Dating Site for Highly-Educated Singles in Skokie

Why is This $47 Monocular Better Than $3000 Telescope

ADVERTISEMENT

Subscribers get Chicagos top newsletter Sign up for Daywatch

5262021 Chicago assisted living company tells workers to get vaccinated or find another job - Chicago Tribune

httpswwwchicagotribunecomcoronavirusvaccinect-prem-coronavirus-vaccine-health-care-companies-firing-unvaccinated-people-20210526-itv456bnyfc7fmstbdhellip 88

Terms of Service

Contact us

Manage Web Notifications

Media kit

Archives

Local print ads

Chicago Tribune Store

Copyright copy 2021 Chicago Tribune

Subscribers get Chicagos top newsletter Sign up for Daywatch

5262021 Chicago assisted living company tells workers to get vaccinated or find another job - Chicago Tribune

httpswwwchicagotribunecomcoronavirusvaccinect-prem-coronavirus-vaccine-health-care-companies-firing-unvaccinated-people-20210526-itv456bnyfc7fmstbdhellip 28

When Melissa Fisher learned shersquod have to get vaccinated to keep her job she triedto fight it

Fisher who works in an assisted living and memory care facility run by Chicago-based Enlivant gave the company a letter from her pastor explaining her religiousobjection Fisher also volunteered to get tested for COVID-19 each week ratherthan be vaccinated

But Enlivant stood firm telling her in a May 21 email that her request to forgovaccination was denied because of the nature of her job and ldquothe threat to yourselfand others from remaining unvaccinatedrdquo

Fisher expects her last day will be May 31

ADVERTISING

Subscribers get Chicagos top newsletter Sign up for Daywatch

SECTIONSJumble Daily amp Crossword

Play NowLOG IN

5262021 Chicago assisted living company tells workers to get vaccinated or find another job - Chicago Tribune

httpswwwchicagotribunecomcoronavirusvaccinect-prem-coronavirus-vaccine-health-care-companies-firing-unvaccinated-people-20210526-itv456bnyfc7fmstbdhellip 38

A syringe of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine is preparedfor recipients on Feb 14 2021 at Steinmetz High Schoolin Chicago (Brian Cassella Chicago Tribune)

ADVERTISEMENT

ldquoI just thought they would honor my freedom of religion my rights but apparentlywe donrsquot have that right anymorerdquo said Fisher who is an apostolic holinessChristian Enlivant has more than 200 facilities across the country including inRockford and Joliet Fisher who works at an Enlivant facility in Tennessee helpsresidents with daily tasks such as dressing and going to the bathroom

Workplace vaccination requirementsare expected to become increasinglycontentious as more offices reopenand the issue could be especiallypressing in the health care industrywhere employees often work closelywith elderly or vulnerable patients

ldquoI think if any type of employer willbe mandating the vaccine it will be

in the health care spacerdquo said Margo Wolf OrsquoDonnell a partner and co-chair of thelabor and employment group at law firm Benesch in Chicago

According to guidance from the Equal Employment Opportunity Commissionemployees of any industry can ask to be exempted from vaccination requirementsbecause of sincerely held religious beliefs or because of disabilities But legalexperts say employers can still require the shots if an unvaccinated person would

Subscribers get Chicagos top newsletter Sign up for Daywatch

5262021 Chicago assisted living company tells workers to get vaccinated or find another job - Chicago Tribune

httpswwwchicagotribunecomcoronavirusvaccinect-prem-coronavirus-vaccine-health-care-companies-firing-unvaccinated-people-20210526-itv456bnyfc7fmstbdhellip 48

pose a direct threat to others in the workplace or if accommodating him or herwould be an undue burden

Enlivant is requiring its workers to get at least their first vaccine shots by June 1spokesman Jeremy Ross said in a statement The company evaluates requests forreligious or medical exceptions on a case-by-case basis and accommodates thoseemployees if it can do so safely he said

ldquoWe provide direct care to vulnerable senior residents who trust us to provide asafe and healthy living environmentrdquo Ross said in the statement ldquoWe are equallydedicated to providing a safe and healthy work environment for our valuedemployees These are our first priorities and the COVID vaccine is key to ensuringsuccess toward these prioritiesrdquo

So far few Illinois health care companies are requiring employee vaccinationsMany have stayed away from mandating vaccines for workers because the shotshave received emergency use authorization but not full approval from the USFood and Drug Administration Pfizer said recently it hoped to secure full approvalin the coming months

Many agencies that provide home health care may revisit the issue of COVID-19vaccine requirements once the shots gain full approval said Sara Ratcliffeexecutive director of the Illinois HomeCare and Hospice Council

In the hospital community ldquotherersquos a lot of discussionrdquo about it said Danny Chuna spokesman for the Illinois Health and Hospital Association

The short supply of health care workers has made some health care companiessuch as long-term care facilities hesitant to require the vaccine

ldquoBecause of staffing pressures the sector faces itrsquos hard to say Irsquom going to mandateit and then lose another four (certified nursing assistants) you desperately need

Subscribers get Chicagos top newsletter Sign up for Daywatch

5262021 Chicago assisted living company tells workers to get vaccinated or find another job - Chicago Tribune

httpswwwchicagotribunecomcoronavirusvaccinect-prem-coronavirus-vaccine-health-care-companies-firing-unvaccinated-people-20210526-itv456bnyfc7fmstbdhellip 58

who are caring for residentsrdquo said Matt Hartman executive director of the IllinoisHealth Care Association

At least a couple lawsuits challenging workplace vaccine mandates by employersoutside of the health care industry have been filed in federal court in other statesbut no decisions have been reached in those cases said Gregory Abrams a partnerat Faegre Drinker Biddle amp Reath in Chicago

Abrams expects to see more such lawsuits

ldquoI think as employees return to work and vaccines become more common and moreexpected I would expect more employees potentially to push the enveloperdquo hesaid

Fisher the Tennessee woman said she is one of about a half dozen workers at herfacility who donrsquot want to get vaccinated and are losing their jobs Enlivantspokesman Ross declined to say how many of the companyrsquos workers across thecountry are refusing shots or if any were in Illinois

Fisherrsquos objection to the vaccination is two-fold Shersquos worried about the long-termeffects of the vaccine Fisher said she also believes requirements to get vaccinescould be a first step toward the ldquomark of the beastrdquo an apocalyptic reference fromthe Book of Revelation

She said she would never endanger the people for whom she cares and she wearsmasks and gloves She doesnrsquot think it makes sense for Enlivant to require her toget vaccinated when outside health care workers and visitors are allowed in thefacility without proof of vaccination

ldquoI understand that Irsquom dealing with the elderly and I donrsquot take that lightlyrdquo Fishersaid ldquoTheyrsquore my family and Irsquom not going to do anything to jeopardize themrdquo

Fisher said she plans to start a new job June 8

Subscribers get Chicagos top newsletter Sign up for Daywatch

5262021 Chicago assisted living company tells workers to get vaccinated or find another job - Chicago Tribune

httpswwwchicagotribunecomcoronavirusvaccinect-prem-coronavirus-vaccine-health-care-companies-firing-unvaccinated-people-20210526-itv456bnyfc7fmstbdhellip 68

Lisa SchenckerChicago Tribune

Lisa Schencker is a Tribune business reporter covering health care She writes about patientshospitals health insurers and pharmaceutical companies Before joining the Tribune in 2016she worked at Modern Healthcare and at daily newspapers across the country including theSalt Lake Tribune for seven years

QUICKEN LOANS | SPONSORED

Leave your 30-Year Mortgage behind if you owe less than$356K (Whats holding you back)

Learn More

WOLF amp SHEPHERD | SPONSORED

BLAST AUXILIARY | SPONSORED

NFL Star Rob Gronkowski Loves These Shoes

How To Cool Down Any Room in Minutes (Try Tonight)

Can you pay off debt and save money Find out

NERDWALLET | SPONSOREDPet Parents Take this Quick Quiz to Save on Dog Food

BLUE BUFFALO | SPONSORED

CHICAGO TRIBUNE

CHICAGO TRIBUNE

Fox News stars Sean Hannity Tucker Carlson and fired anchor Ed Henry named in sexual harassment lawsuit

By DAVID BAUDERJohnny Depp says feces in bed was last straw in marriage to Amber Heard

By JILL LAWLESS

NY DAILY NEWS

Vanessa Bryant responds to momrsquos lsquohurtfulrsquo lawsuit says Kobelsquowould be so disappointedrsquo

You May Like by TaboolaSponsored Links Subscribers get Chicagos top newsletter Sign up for Daywatch

5262021 Chicago assisted living company tells workers to get vaccinated or find another job - Chicago Tribune

httpswwwchicagotribunecomcoronavirusvaccinect-prem-coronavirus-vaccine-health-care-companies-firing-unvaccinated-people-20210526-itv456bnyfc7fmstbdhellip 78

CONNECT

TRIBUNE PUBLISHING

New York Daily News

Orlando Sentinel

The Morning Call of Pa

Daily Press of Va

The Daily Meal

The Baltimore Sun

Sun Sentinel of Fla

Hartford Courant

The Virginian-Pilot

Studio 1847

COMPANY INFO

Careers

Help Center

About us

Privacy Policy

Ultimate Pet Nutrition

The Wallet Watcher

EliteSingles

Starscope

If Your Cat Vomits (Do This Every Day)

7 Discounts Seniors Only Get If They Ask

The Dating Site for Highly-Educated Singles in Skokie

Why is This $47 Monocular Better Than $3000 Telescope

ADVERTISEMENT

Subscribers get Chicagos top newsletter Sign up for Daywatch

5262021 Chicago assisted living company tells workers to get vaccinated or find another job - Chicago Tribune

httpswwwchicagotribunecomcoronavirusvaccinect-prem-coronavirus-vaccine-health-care-companies-firing-unvaccinated-people-20210526-itv456bnyfc7fmstbdhellip 88

Terms of Service

Contact us

Manage Web Notifications

Media kit

Archives

Local print ads

Chicago Tribune Store

Copyright copy 2021 Chicago Tribune

Subscribers get Chicagos top newsletter Sign up for Daywatch

5262021 Chicago assisted living company tells workers to get vaccinated or find another job - Chicago Tribune

httpswwwchicagotribunecomcoronavirusvaccinect-prem-coronavirus-vaccine-health-care-companies-firing-unvaccinated-people-20210526-itv456bnyfc7fmstbdhellip 38

A syringe of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine is preparedfor recipients on Feb 14 2021 at Steinmetz High Schoolin Chicago (Brian Cassella Chicago Tribune)

ADVERTISEMENT

ldquoI just thought they would honor my freedom of religion my rights but apparentlywe donrsquot have that right anymorerdquo said Fisher who is an apostolic holinessChristian Enlivant has more than 200 facilities across the country including inRockford and Joliet Fisher who works at an Enlivant facility in Tennessee helpsresidents with daily tasks such as dressing and going to the bathroom

Workplace vaccination requirementsare expected to become increasinglycontentious as more offices reopenand the issue could be especiallypressing in the health care industrywhere employees often work closelywith elderly or vulnerable patients

ldquoI think if any type of employer willbe mandating the vaccine it will be

in the health care spacerdquo said Margo Wolf OrsquoDonnell a partner and co-chair of thelabor and employment group at law firm Benesch in Chicago

According to guidance from the Equal Employment Opportunity Commissionemployees of any industry can ask to be exempted from vaccination requirementsbecause of sincerely held religious beliefs or because of disabilities But legalexperts say employers can still require the shots if an unvaccinated person would

Subscribers get Chicagos top newsletter Sign up for Daywatch

5262021 Chicago assisted living company tells workers to get vaccinated or find another job - Chicago Tribune

httpswwwchicagotribunecomcoronavirusvaccinect-prem-coronavirus-vaccine-health-care-companies-firing-unvaccinated-people-20210526-itv456bnyfc7fmstbdhellip 48

pose a direct threat to others in the workplace or if accommodating him or herwould be an undue burden

Enlivant is requiring its workers to get at least their first vaccine shots by June 1spokesman Jeremy Ross said in a statement The company evaluates requests forreligious or medical exceptions on a case-by-case basis and accommodates thoseemployees if it can do so safely he said

ldquoWe provide direct care to vulnerable senior residents who trust us to provide asafe and healthy living environmentrdquo Ross said in the statement ldquoWe are equallydedicated to providing a safe and healthy work environment for our valuedemployees These are our first priorities and the COVID vaccine is key to ensuringsuccess toward these prioritiesrdquo

So far few Illinois health care companies are requiring employee vaccinationsMany have stayed away from mandating vaccines for workers because the shotshave received emergency use authorization but not full approval from the USFood and Drug Administration Pfizer said recently it hoped to secure full approvalin the coming months

Many agencies that provide home health care may revisit the issue of COVID-19vaccine requirements once the shots gain full approval said Sara Ratcliffeexecutive director of the Illinois HomeCare and Hospice Council

In the hospital community ldquotherersquos a lot of discussionrdquo about it said Danny Chuna spokesman for the Illinois Health and Hospital Association

The short supply of health care workers has made some health care companiessuch as long-term care facilities hesitant to require the vaccine

ldquoBecause of staffing pressures the sector faces itrsquos hard to say Irsquom going to mandateit and then lose another four (certified nursing assistants) you desperately need

Subscribers get Chicagos top newsletter Sign up for Daywatch

5262021 Chicago assisted living company tells workers to get vaccinated or find another job - Chicago Tribune

httpswwwchicagotribunecomcoronavirusvaccinect-prem-coronavirus-vaccine-health-care-companies-firing-unvaccinated-people-20210526-itv456bnyfc7fmstbdhellip 58

who are caring for residentsrdquo said Matt Hartman executive director of the IllinoisHealth Care Association

At least a couple lawsuits challenging workplace vaccine mandates by employersoutside of the health care industry have been filed in federal court in other statesbut no decisions have been reached in those cases said Gregory Abrams a partnerat Faegre Drinker Biddle amp Reath in Chicago

Abrams expects to see more such lawsuits

ldquoI think as employees return to work and vaccines become more common and moreexpected I would expect more employees potentially to push the enveloperdquo hesaid

Fisher the Tennessee woman said she is one of about a half dozen workers at herfacility who donrsquot want to get vaccinated and are losing their jobs Enlivantspokesman Ross declined to say how many of the companyrsquos workers across thecountry are refusing shots or if any were in Illinois

Fisherrsquos objection to the vaccination is two-fold Shersquos worried about the long-termeffects of the vaccine Fisher said she also believes requirements to get vaccinescould be a first step toward the ldquomark of the beastrdquo an apocalyptic reference fromthe Book of Revelation

She said she would never endanger the people for whom she cares and she wearsmasks and gloves She doesnrsquot think it makes sense for Enlivant to require her toget vaccinated when outside health care workers and visitors are allowed in thefacility without proof of vaccination

ldquoI understand that Irsquom dealing with the elderly and I donrsquot take that lightlyrdquo Fishersaid ldquoTheyrsquore my family and Irsquom not going to do anything to jeopardize themrdquo

Fisher said she plans to start a new job June 8

Subscribers get Chicagos top newsletter Sign up for Daywatch

5262021 Chicago assisted living company tells workers to get vaccinated or find another job - Chicago Tribune

httpswwwchicagotribunecomcoronavirusvaccinect-prem-coronavirus-vaccine-health-care-companies-firing-unvaccinated-people-20210526-itv456bnyfc7fmstbdhellip 68

Lisa SchenckerChicago Tribune

Lisa Schencker is a Tribune business reporter covering health care She writes about patientshospitals health insurers and pharmaceutical companies Before joining the Tribune in 2016she worked at Modern Healthcare and at daily newspapers across the country including theSalt Lake Tribune for seven years

QUICKEN LOANS | SPONSORED

Leave your 30-Year Mortgage behind if you owe less than$356K (Whats holding you back)

Learn More

WOLF amp SHEPHERD | SPONSORED

BLAST AUXILIARY | SPONSORED

NFL Star Rob Gronkowski Loves These Shoes

How To Cool Down Any Room in Minutes (Try Tonight)

Can you pay off debt and save money Find out

NERDWALLET | SPONSOREDPet Parents Take this Quick Quiz to Save on Dog Food

BLUE BUFFALO | SPONSORED

CHICAGO TRIBUNE

CHICAGO TRIBUNE

Fox News stars Sean Hannity Tucker Carlson and fired anchor Ed Henry named in sexual harassment lawsuit

By DAVID BAUDERJohnny Depp says feces in bed was last straw in marriage to Amber Heard

By JILL LAWLESS

NY DAILY NEWS

Vanessa Bryant responds to momrsquos lsquohurtfulrsquo lawsuit says Kobelsquowould be so disappointedrsquo

You May Like by TaboolaSponsored Links Subscribers get Chicagos top newsletter Sign up for Daywatch

5262021 Chicago assisted living company tells workers to get vaccinated or find another job - Chicago Tribune

httpswwwchicagotribunecomcoronavirusvaccinect-prem-coronavirus-vaccine-health-care-companies-firing-unvaccinated-people-20210526-itv456bnyfc7fmstbdhellip 78

CONNECT

TRIBUNE PUBLISHING

New York Daily News

Orlando Sentinel

The Morning Call of Pa

Daily Press of Va

The Daily Meal

The Baltimore Sun

Sun Sentinel of Fla

Hartford Courant

The Virginian-Pilot

Studio 1847

COMPANY INFO

Careers

Help Center

About us

Privacy Policy

Ultimate Pet Nutrition

The Wallet Watcher

EliteSingles

Starscope

If Your Cat Vomits (Do This Every Day)

7 Discounts Seniors Only Get If They Ask

The Dating Site for Highly-Educated Singles in Skokie

Why is This $47 Monocular Better Than $3000 Telescope

ADVERTISEMENT

Subscribers get Chicagos top newsletter Sign up for Daywatch

5262021 Chicago assisted living company tells workers to get vaccinated or find another job - Chicago Tribune

httpswwwchicagotribunecomcoronavirusvaccinect-prem-coronavirus-vaccine-health-care-companies-firing-unvaccinated-people-20210526-itv456bnyfc7fmstbdhellip 88

Terms of Service

Contact us

Manage Web Notifications

Media kit

Archives

Local print ads

Chicago Tribune Store

Copyright copy 2021 Chicago Tribune

Subscribers get Chicagos top newsletter Sign up for Daywatch

5262021 Chicago assisted living company tells workers to get vaccinated or find another job - Chicago Tribune

httpswwwchicagotribunecomcoronavirusvaccinect-prem-coronavirus-vaccine-health-care-companies-firing-unvaccinated-people-20210526-itv456bnyfc7fmstbdhellip 48

pose a direct threat to others in the workplace or if accommodating him or herwould be an undue burden

Enlivant is requiring its workers to get at least their first vaccine shots by June 1spokesman Jeremy Ross said in a statement The company evaluates requests forreligious or medical exceptions on a case-by-case basis and accommodates thoseemployees if it can do so safely he said

ldquoWe provide direct care to vulnerable senior residents who trust us to provide asafe and healthy living environmentrdquo Ross said in the statement ldquoWe are equallydedicated to providing a safe and healthy work environment for our valuedemployees These are our first priorities and the COVID vaccine is key to ensuringsuccess toward these prioritiesrdquo

So far few Illinois health care companies are requiring employee vaccinationsMany have stayed away from mandating vaccines for workers because the shotshave received emergency use authorization but not full approval from the USFood and Drug Administration Pfizer said recently it hoped to secure full approvalin the coming months

Many agencies that provide home health care may revisit the issue of COVID-19vaccine requirements once the shots gain full approval said Sara Ratcliffeexecutive director of the Illinois HomeCare and Hospice Council

In the hospital community ldquotherersquos a lot of discussionrdquo about it said Danny Chuna spokesman for the Illinois Health and Hospital Association

The short supply of health care workers has made some health care companiessuch as long-term care facilities hesitant to require the vaccine

ldquoBecause of staffing pressures the sector faces itrsquos hard to say Irsquom going to mandateit and then lose another four (certified nursing assistants) you desperately need

Subscribers get Chicagos top newsletter Sign up for Daywatch

5262021 Chicago assisted living company tells workers to get vaccinated or find another job - Chicago Tribune

httpswwwchicagotribunecomcoronavirusvaccinect-prem-coronavirus-vaccine-health-care-companies-firing-unvaccinated-people-20210526-itv456bnyfc7fmstbdhellip 58

who are caring for residentsrdquo said Matt Hartman executive director of the IllinoisHealth Care Association

At least a couple lawsuits challenging workplace vaccine mandates by employersoutside of the health care industry have been filed in federal court in other statesbut no decisions have been reached in those cases said Gregory Abrams a partnerat Faegre Drinker Biddle amp Reath in Chicago

Abrams expects to see more such lawsuits

ldquoI think as employees return to work and vaccines become more common and moreexpected I would expect more employees potentially to push the enveloperdquo hesaid

Fisher the Tennessee woman said she is one of about a half dozen workers at herfacility who donrsquot want to get vaccinated and are losing their jobs Enlivantspokesman Ross declined to say how many of the companyrsquos workers across thecountry are refusing shots or if any were in Illinois

Fisherrsquos objection to the vaccination is two-fold Shersquos worried about the long-termeffects of the vaccine Fisher said she also believes requirements to get vaccinescould be a first step toward the ldquomark of the beastrdquo an apocalyptic reference fromthe Book of Revelation

She said she would never endanger the people for whom she cares and she wearsmasks and gloves She doesnrsquot think it makes sense for Enlivant to require her toget vaccinated when outside health care workers and visitors are allowed in thefacility without proof of vaccination

ldquoI understand that Irsquom dealing with the elderly and I donrsquot take that lightlyrdquo Fishersaid ldquoTheyrsquore my family and Irsquom not going to do anything to jeopardize themrdquo

Fisher said she plans to start a new job June 8

Subscribers get Chicagos top newsletter Sign up for Daywatch

5262021 Chicago assisted living company tells workers to get vaccinated or find another job - Chicago Tribune

httpswwwchicagotribunecomcoronavirusvaccinect-prem-coronavirus-vaccine-health-care-companies-firing-unvaccinated-people-20210526-itv456bnyfc7fmstbdhellip 68

Lisa SchenckerChicago Tribune

Lisa Schencker is a Tribune business reporter covering health care She writes about patientshospitals health insurers and pharmaceutical companies Before joining the Tribune in 2016she worked at Modern Healthcare and at daily newspapers across the country including theSalt Lake Tribune for seven years

QUICKEN LOANS | SPONSORED

Leave your 30-Year Mortgage behind if you owe less than$356K (Whats holding you back)

Learn More

WOLF amp SHEPHERD | SPONSORED

BLAST AUXILIARY | SPONSORED

NFL Star Rob Gronkowski Loves These Shoes

How To Cool Down Any Room in Minutes (Try Tonight)

Can you pay off debt and save money Find out

NERDWALLET | SPONSOREDPet Parents Take this Quick Quiz to Save on Dog Food

BLUE BUFFALO | SPONSORED

CHICAGO TRIBUNE

CHICAGO TRIBUNE

Fox News stars Sean Hannity Tucker Carlson and fired anchor Ed Henry named in sexual harassment lawsuit

By DAVID BAUDERJohnny Depp says feces in bed was last straw in marriage to Amber Heard

By JILL LAWLESS

NY DAILY NEWS

Vanessa Bryant responds to momrsquos lsquohurtfulrsquo lawsuit says Kobelsquowould be so disappointedrsquo

You May Like by TaboolaSponsored Links Subscribers get Chicagos top newsletter Sign up for Daywatch

5262021 Chicago assisted living company tells workers to get vaccinated or find another job - Chicago Tribune

httpswwwchicagotribunecomcoronavirusvaccinect-prem-coronavirus-vaccine-health-care-companies-firing-unvaccinated-people-20210526-itv456bnyfc7fmstbdhellip 78

CONNECT

TRIBUNE PUBLISHING

New York Daily News

Orlando Sentinel

The Morning Call of Pa

Daily Press of Va

The Daily Meal

The Baltimore Sun

Sun Sentinel of Fla

Hartford Courant

The Virginian-Pilot

Studio 1847

COMPANY INFO

Careers

Help Center

About us

Privacy Policy

Ultimate Pet Nutrition

The Wallet Watcher

EliteSingles

Starscope

If Your Cat Vomits (Do This Every Day)

7 Discounts Seniors Only Get If They Ask

The Dating Site for Highly-Educated Singles in Skokie

Why is This $47 Monocular Better Than $3000 Telescope

ADVERTISEMENT

Subscribers get Chicagos top newsletter Sign up for Daywatch

5262021 Chicago assisted living company tells workers to get vaccinated or find another job - Chicago Tribune

httpswwwchicagotribunecomcoronavirusvaccinect-prem-coronavirus-vaccine-health-care-companies-firing-unvaccinated-people-20210526-itv456bnyfc7fmstbdhellip 88

Terms of Service

Contact us

Manage Web Notifications

Media kit

Archives

Local print ads

Chicago Tribune Store

Copyright copy 2021 Chicago Tribune

Subscribers get Chicagos top newsletter Sign up for Daywatch

5262021 Chicago assisted living company tells workers to get vaccinated or find another job - Chicago Tribune

httpswwwchicagotribunecomcoronavirusvaccinect-prem-coronavirus-vaccine-health-care-companies-firing-unvaccinated-people-20210526-itv456bnyfc7fmstbdhellip 58

who are caring for residentsrdquo said Matt Hartman executive director of the IllinoisHealth Care Association

At least a couple lawsuits challenging workplace vaccine mandates by employersoutside of the health care industry have been filed in federal court in other statesbut no decisions have been reached in those cases said Gregory Abrams a partnerat Faegre Drinker Biddle amp Reath in Chicago

Abrams expects to see more such lawsuits

ldquoI think as employees return to work and vaccines become more common and moreexpected I would expect more employees potentially to push the enveloperdquo hesaid

Fisher the Tennessee woman said she is one of about a half dozen workers at herfacility who donrsquot want to get vaccinated and are losing their jobs Enlivantspokesman Ross declined to say how many of the companyrsquos workers across thecountry are refusing shots or if any were in Illinois

Fisherrsquos objection to the vaccination is two-fold Shersquos worried about the long-termeffects of the vaccine Fisher said she also believes requirements to get vaccinescould be a first step toward the ldquomark of the beastrdquo an apocalyptic reference fromthe Book of Revelation

She said she would never endanger the people for whom she cares and she wearsmasks and gloves She doesnrsquot think it makes sense for Enlivant to require her toget vaccinated when outside health care workers and visitors are allowed in thefacility without proof of vaccination

ldquoI understand that Irsquom dealing with the elderly and I donrsquot take that lightlyrdquo Fishersaid ldquoTheyrsquore my family and Irsquom not going to do anything to jeopardize themrdquo

Fisher said she plans to start a new job June 8

Subscribers get Chicagos top newsletter Sign up for Daywatch

5262021 Chicago assisted living company tells workers to get vaccinated or find another job - Chicago Tribune

httpswwwchicagotribunecomcoronavirusvaccinect-prem-coronavirus-vaccine-health-care-companies-firing-unvaccinated-people-20210526-itv456bnyfc7fmstbdhellip 68

Lisa SchenckerChicago Tribune

Lisa Schencker is a Tribune business reporter covering health care She writes about patientshospitals health insurers and pharmaceutical companies Before joining the Tribune in 2016she worked at Modern Healthcare and at daily newspapers across the country including theSalt Lake Tribune for seven years

QUICKEN LOANS | SPONSORED

Leave your 30-Year Mortgage behind if you owe less than$356K (Whats holding you back)

Learn More

WOLF amp SHEPHERD | SPONSORED

BLAST AUXILIARY | SPONSORED

NFL Star Rob Gronkowski Loves These Shoes

How To Cool Down Any Room in Minutes (Try Tonight)

Can you pay off debt and save money Find out

NERDWALLET | SPONSOREDPet Parents Take this Quick Quiz to Save on Dog Food

BLUE BUFFALO | SPONSORED

CHICAGO TRIBUNE

CHICAGO TRIBUNE

Fox News stars Sean Hannity Tucker Carlson and fired anchor Ed Henry named in sexual harassment lawsuit

By DAVID BAUDERJohnny Depp says feces in bed was last straw in marriage to Amber Heard

By JILL LAWLESS

NY DAILY NEWS

Vanessa Bryant responds to momrsquos lsquohurtfulrsquo lawsuit says Kobelsquowould be so disappointedrsquo

You May Like by TaboolaSponsored Links Subscribers get Chicagos top newsletter Sign up for Daywatch

5262021 Chicago assisted living company tells workers to get vaccinated or find another job - Chicago Tribune

httpswwwchicagotribunecomcoronavirusvaccinect-prem-coronavirus-vaccine-health-care-companies-firing-unvaccinated-people-20210526-itv456bnyfc7fmstbdhellip 78

CONNECT

TRIBUNE PUBLISHING

New York Daily News

Orlando Sentinel

The Morning Call of Pa

Daily Press of Va

The Daily Meal

The Baltimore Sun

Sun Sentinel of Fla

Hartford Courant

The Virginian-Pilot

Studio 1847

COMPANY INFO

Careers

Help Center

About us

Privacy Policy

Ultimate Pet Nutrition

The Wallet Watcher

EliteSingles

Starscope

If Your Cat Vomits (Do This Every Day)

7 Discounts Seniors Only Get If They Ask

The Dating Site for Highly-Educated Singles in Skokie

Why is This $47 Monocular Better Than $3000 Telescope

ADVERTISEMENT

Subscribers get Chicagos top newsletter Sign up for Daywatch

5262021 Chicago assisted living company tells workers to get vaccinated or find another job - Chicago Tribune

httpswwwchicagotribunecomcoronavirusvaccinect-prem-coronavirus-vaccine-health-care-companies-firing-unvaccinated-people-20210526-itv456bnyfc7fmstbdhellip 88

Terms of Service

Contact us

Manage Web Notifications

Media kit

Archives

Local print ads

Chicago Tribune Store

Copyright copy 2021 Chicago Tribune

Subscribers get Chicagos top newsletter Sign up for Daywatch

5262021 Chicago assisted living company tells workers to get vaccinated or find another job - Chicago Tribune

httpswwwchicagotribunecomcoronavirusvaccinect-prem-coronavirus-vaccine-health-care-companies-firing-unvaccinated-people-20210526-itv456bnyfc7fmstbdhellip 68

Lisa SchenckerChicago Tribune

Lisa Schencker is a Tribune business reporter covering health care She writes about patientshospitals health insurers and pharmaceutical companies Before joining the Tribune in 2016she worked at Modern Healthcare and at daily newspapers across the country including theSalt Lake Tribune for seven years

QUICKEN LOANS | SPONSORED

Leave your 30-Year Mortgage behind if you owe less than$356K (Whats holding you back)

Learn More

WOLF amp SHEPHERD | SPONSORED

BLAST AUXILIARY | SPONSORED

NFL Star Rob Gronkowski Loves These Shoes

How To Cool Down Any Room in Minutes (Try Tonight)

Can you pay off debt and save money Find out

NERDWALLET | SPONSOREDPet Parents Take this Quick Quiz to Save on Dog Food

BLUE BUFFALO | SPONSORED

CHICAGO TRIBUNE

CHICAGO TRIBUNE

Fox News stars Sean Hannity Tucker Carlson and fired anchor Ed Henry named in sexual harassment lawsuit

By DAVID BAUDERJohnny Depp says feces in bed was last straw in marriage to Amber Heard

By JILL LAWLESS

NY DAILY NEWS

Vanessa Bryant responds to momrsquos lsquohurtfulrsquo lawsuit says Kobelsquowould be so disappointedrsquo

You May Like by TaboolaSponsored Links Subscribers get Chicagos top newsletter Sign up for Daywatch

5262021 Chicago assisted living company tells workers to get vaccinated or find another job - Chicago Tribune

httpswwwchicagotribunecomcoronavirusvaccinect-prem-coronavirus-vaccine-health-care-companies-firing-unvaccinated-people-20210526-itv456bnyfc7fmstbdhellip 78

CONNECT

TRIBUNE PUBLISHING

New York Daily News

Orlando Sentinel

The Morning Call of Pa

Daily Press of Va

The Daily Meal

The Baltimore Sun

Sun Sentinel of Fla

Hartford Courant

The Virginian-Pilot

Studio 1847

COMPANY INFO

Careers

Help Center

About us

Privacy Policy

Ultimate Pet Nutrition

The Wallet Watcher

EliteSingles

Starscope

If Your Cat Vomits (Do This Every Day)

7 Discounts Seniors Only Get If They Ask

The Dating Site for Highly-Educated Singles in Skokie

Why is This $47 Monocular Better Than $3000 Telescope

ADVERTISEMENT

Subscribers get Chicagos top newsletter Sign up for Daywatch

5262021 Chicago assisted living company tells workers to get vaccinated or find another job - Chicago Tribune

httpswwwchicagotribunecomcoronavirusvaccinect-prem-coronavirus-vaccine-health-care-companies-firing-unvaccinated-people-20210526-itv456bnyfc7fmstbdhellip 88

Terms of Service

Contact us

Manage Web Notifications

Media kit

Archives

Local print ads

Chicago Tribune Store

Copyright copy 2021 Chicago Tribune

Subscribers get Chicagos top newsletter Sign up for Daywatch

5262021 Chicago assisted living company tells workers to get vaccinated or find another job - Chicago Tribune

httpswwwchicagotribunecomcoronavirusvaccinect-prem-coronavirus-vaccine-health-care-companies-firing-unvaccinated-people-20210526-itv456bnyfc7fmstbdhellip 78

CONNECT

TRIBUNE PUBLISHING

New York Daily News

Orlando Sentinel

The Morning Call of Pa

Daily Press of Va

The Daily Meal

The Baltimore Sun

Sun Sentinel of Fla

Hartford Courant

The Virginian-Pilot

Studio 1847

COMPANY INFO

Careers

Help Center

About us

Privacy Policy

Ultimate Pet Nutrition

The Wallet Watcher

EliteSingles

Starscope

If Your Cat Vomits (Do This Every Day)

7 Discounts Seniors Only Get If They Ask

The Dating Site for Highly-Educated Singles in Skokie

Why is This $47 Monocular Better Than $3000 Telescope

ADVERTISEMENT

Subscribers get Chicagos top newsletter Sign up for Daywatch

5262021 Chicago assisted living company tells workers to get vaccinated or find another job - Chicago Tribune

httpswwwchicagotribunecomcoronavirusvaccinect-prem-coronavirus-vaccine-health-care-companies-firing-unvaccinated-people-20210526-itv456bnyfc7fmstbdhellip 88

Terms of Service

Contact us

Manage Web Notifications

Media kit

Archives

Local print ads

Chicago Tribune Store

Copyright copy 2021 Chicago Tribune

Subscribers get Chicagos top newsletter Sign up for Daywatch

5262021 Chicago assisted living company tells workers to get vaccinated or find another job - Chicago Tribune

httpswwwchicagotribunecomcoronavirusvaccinect-prem-coronavirus-vaccine-health-care-companies-firing-unvaccinated-people-20210526-itv456bnyfc7fmstbdhellip 88

Terms of Service

Contact us

Manage Web Notifications

Media kit

Archives

Local print ads

Chicago Tribune Store

Copyright copy 2021 Chicago Tribune

Subscribers get Chicagos top newsletter Sign up for Daywatch