Coronavirus crisis: Unions warn WA hospital staff could quit over forced vaccinations

WA’s medical unions have backed mandatory vaccination for health workers – but have warned that it could lead to some staff quitting. This morning, Health Minister Roger Cook announced that unvaccinated healthcare system workers — from doctors all the way down to cleaners — will be banned from all hospitals by the end of the year under a phased introduction of mandatory COVID-19 jabs. Australian Nursing Federation WA state secretary Mark Olson supported the decision – but warned that some health workers may choose to resign rather than get the vaccine. “The ANF supports the decision made by the Chief Medical Officer,” he said. “(But) the massive shortfall of staff that we currently have in Western Australia, that may get worse.” Mr Olson estimated that around seven to eight per cent of workers would reject the jab – and urged the government not to immediately fire non-compliant staff. “If some of our healthcare workers decide to leave rather than get the vaccine, I think that would be incredibly sad,” he said. “If people choose not to get a vaccine, then I wouldn't simply sack them. Just put them on leave for now.” The Australian Medical Association also supported the mandatory-jab rule. “Ultimately, healthcare professionals need to lead by example,” said AMA WA President Dr Mark Duncan Smith. Dr Duncan Smith downplayed concerns around a staff-exodus, insisting that only a “very, very small percentage” would opt to leave. “The percentage of doctors that are vaccinated is pushing the 90 per cent mark at this stage,” he said. “Any healthcare professionals leaving the workforce at this time would concern the AMA. “But ultimately, the best way for us to protect society and serve society is to make sure that we stay well as a workforce.” The mandatory vaccination rule will be implemented in stages. From October 1, health care workers accessing “tier one” locations – such as ICU, high dependency units, respiratory wards, emergency departments and COVID vaccination clinics – will need to have had at least a first jab. They must be fully immunised by November 1. Also from November 1, health care workers will need to have had at least their first dose of a COVID-19 vaccine to access “tier two” facilities – which include all other areas in public and private hospitals. These workers will need to be fully vaccinated by December 1. Finally, a first jab will be compulsory to access “tier three” facilities from December 1 – which includes the Department of Health head office and public health support services. Full vaccination will be required by January 1 next year.