Ron DeSantis, Governor of Florida, has made it clear that the state will not be enforcing any mandates for COVID-19 vaccinations. In November, he signed a law that requires employers who make their workers receive the vaccine to provide exemptions outlined by the Florida Department of Health rule. Hospitals in the West Florida Division of HCA Healthcare have always encouraged their colleagues to get vaccinated against COVID-19 and have made vaccines available. Hospitals in South Florida and Treasure Coast have also been encouraging vaccination among staff.
As the omicron variant of COVID-19 continues to surge, Florida hospitals and health systems are facing a difficult situation with conflicting positions from the federal and state governments regarding vaccination mandates. It is up to each hospital to decide how to handle this issue, but they must be aware of the laws and regulations in place. It is important for hospitals to consider the safety of their staff and patients when making decisions about whether or not to mandate vaccinations. Vaccines are an important tool in the fight against COVID-19, and hospitals should do their best to ensure that their staff are protected.
