NY DOH pulls back booster requirement for healthcare workers

ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WHEC) — The New York State Department of Health announced Friday that it will no longer enforce a February 21 deadline for healthcare workers to receive a COVID vaccine booster.

The DOH cites data that claims 75% of the workforce has either received or would be willing to receive a booster, including 88% of those involved with direct care.

The state says it will continue to work closely with hospitals and healthcare facilities to expand access to boosters, and otherwise, will reassess in three months, whether additional steps are necessary.

Statement from @UR_Med on @HealthNYGov’s decision NOT to enforce the booster mandate for healthcare workers which was set to go into effect on Monday. @news10nbc pic.twitter.com/LzQ1XQOaxm

— Jennifer Lewke (@WHEC_JLewke) February 18, 2022

Earlier this week, News10NBC talked with local hospitals about the ongoing staffing challenges and the potential impact of the deadline.