SOMC workers protest vaccine policy

PORTSMOUTH, Ohio. (WSAZ) – On Monday morning, dozens of people lined up on the sidewalks of the intersection outside the main entrance to Southern Ohio Medical Center. Most of them were hospital workers and they gathered with signs in their hands.

“I hope it might change someone’s mind, but I’ve spoken with my managers and it seems like it’s a little over our heads,” said Amy Conlon.

Conlon is referring to the SOMC policy that will go into effect next month and will require employees to get vaccinated or tested for COVID-19 every week.

“We shouldn’t be going through this every week if we’re not symptomatic and we’re not sick,” Conlon said.

The hospital released this statement to WSAZ:

“At SOMC, we fully support the rights of individuals to express their opinions and beliefs. This is why we sought the advice of staff before determining a policy regarding the COVID-19 vaccine. This is also why our policy has always included exemptions based on medical history as well as religious or strongly held personal beliefs.

We respect their right to make their own personal decisions, and this is reflected in our policy. The SOMC has never declared receiving the COVID-19 vaccine a condition of employment. Instead, we only demand that those who are not vaccinated be tested to confirm that they are not positive for COVID. We understand this is a source of frustration for some, but we will always prioritize the safety of our patients, many of whom are immunosuppressed.

As healthcare workers, we have an obligation to do everything possible to protect the health of our patients. We believe that means taking reasonable steps to prevent the spread of COVID-19. While we strongly encourage vaccination against COVID-19, we have also clearly communicated the process by which those who refuse can still safely care for patients. Our patients deserve to know that they are receiving care in a facility that puts their health and safety first, and we will continue to do our utmost to meet that expectation.

The FDA approved Pfizer’s vaccine on Monday morning, but many people protesting the hospital’s policy said he would not change his mind.

“I love my job. I love SOM. I love my patients. I love my colleagues,” said Brandy Chandler.

“We are good nurses,” said Terri Montgomery-Martin. “We love our patients and take very good care of them. “

The vaccine policy goes into effect at the SOMC on September 17.

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