Blue Cross, Blue Shield RI To Require Employee COVID-19 Vaccines

PROVIDENCE, RI — Yet another Rhode Island health care business will require employees to get the COVID-19 vaccine. Blue Cross, Blue Shield joins CVS Health, Lifespan, Care New England and other organizations in issuing the new policy.

The requirement applies to all Blue Cross, Blue Shield employees in Rhode Island, including those working remotely or future hires. Employees will have until Nov. 1 to submit proof of vaccination or apply for a medical or religious exemption, the company said in a statement.

"We are in challenging times that I believe require all of us to take strong actions to protect public health," CEO Martha Wofford said. "As the largest health insurer and one of the largest employers in the state, requiring COVID-19 vaccinations can help safeguard the health and well-being of our employees and our community."

The company will "continue to do everything we can to facilitate vaccination and provide support to the people of Rhode Island, especially to our most vulnerable communities," Woffard continued. While it was a difficult decision, she said, "we believe putting a vaccine mandate in place is critical to ending this pandemic."

The company will also require COVID-19 vaccinations for all vendors at the company headquarters in downtown Providence, as well as the four retail stores around the state.

"It's critical to be clear in explaining to our employees why we've made this decision," said Hillary McCurley, the chief human resources officer. "As we continue to develop a new, more flexible, hybrid workplace, we want people to have the opportunity to safely collaborate in person, whether they are meeting at 500 Exchange or in another setting. A fully vaccinated workforce will make that possible."

Read more:

• COVID-19 Vaccines Required For Rhode Island Health Care Workers
  
• Lifespan, Care New England To Require Staff COVID-19 Vaccines
• CVS Requiring COVID-19 Vaccines For Some Employees