Phoebe Ministries today announced that it will require employees across the senior living organization to receive COVID-19 vaccination by October 15, 2021 as a condition of employment. With communities in Berks, Bucks, Lancaster, Lehigh, Montgomery, Northampton, and Union counties, this requirement applies to all of Phoebe Ministries’ employees. The policy will recognize authorized medical and religious exemptions.

Since federal approval of the first vaccines in late 2020, Phoebe Ministries has continued to encourage residents, staff, volunteers, and visitors to get the vaccines, which are proven to be safe and effective. Already, the majority of Phoebe Ministries’ staff have received COVID-19 vaccinations.

“As a healthcare provider, we are duty-bound to protect the vulnerable population we serve,” said Scott Stevenson, President and CEO of Phoebe Ministries. “Guided by recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), it is clear that community-wide immunization is a crucial next step to overcoming this pandemic. This decision serves the best interests of everyone in our Phoebe community and beyond.”

Phoebe Ministries offers staff easy access to vaccinations through Phoebe Pharmacy, its comprehensive pharmaceutical provider serving thousands of long-term care, personal care, behavioral health and independent living residents. Phoebe Pharmacy is equipped to vaccinate staff members at all of its communities.