The University of Ottawa Heart Institute (UOHI), like The Ottawa Hospital and others across the region, will follow the provincial government directive and implement a COVID-19 vaccination policy for everyone working in the hospital environment.
Key dates under the vaccine policy
- The UOHI will require staff to receive a first dose of vaccine by September 7 and a second dose by October 15.
- After the October 15 deadline, the UOHI will examine the vaccination rate of its staff to determine whether further measures are required to ensure the safety of its health care environment.
Currently, more than 90% of medical staff and residents and more than 85% of employees at the UOHI are fully vaccinated. In implementing a phased approach toward a mandatory vaccine, the UOHI ensures those who have not yet been vaccinated have the necessary time to receive both doses of the vaccine.
In an address to staff issued on August 20, UOHI President and CEO Dr. Thierry Mesana said, “As the Delta variant is taking hold, it is imperative everyone who is eligible for vaccination gets vaccinated to protect our patients and their families, and to protect our UOHI family.” He thanked healthcare workers, including researchers, administrators, and volunteers for their dedication and commitment to the UOHI’s patients and their families during these unprecedented times. “Vaccination remains the best tool in our toolbox,” he said. “Together, we can beat this virus!”
The UOHI promises staff who have not yet been vaccinated will receive education and consultation about the safety and efficacy of the COVID-19 vaccines. The institute will provide regular point-of-care antigen testing to those who have not yet been vaccinated during this transition period toward mandatory vaccination.
On its website, the UOHI insists the hospital is safe and says to seek immediate care in a medical emergency.
Media contact
Leigh B. Morris
Communications Officer
University of Ottawa Heart Institute
613-316-6409 (cell)
@email