SURPRISE, Ariz. – Aug. 17, 2021 – Sun Health’s board of directors has taken a proactive step in the fight against COVID-19 by requiring all staff to be fully vaccinated by Monday, Nov. 1.
The leading provider of health and wellbeing services throughout the West Valley, which closely follows recommendations by the CDC as well as the Arizona Department of Health Services, took this action to protect all of its stakeholders at The Colonnade, Grandview Terrace, La Loma Village and Sun Health At Home, as well as at the Sun Health Center for Health & Wellbeing and the Sun Health Foundation.
“This mandate falls in line with our dedication to being a resource of health and wellness to all we serve. We are community leaders in this arena, and this decision is not taken lightly. We must do everything we can to maintain the bond of trust we have within our community,” said Patricia Lewis Finnell, chair, Sun Health Services Board of Directors. “We determined the appropriate course of action was to require all Sun Health staff to be fully vaccinated, or receive an approved religious or medical exemption.”
Sun Health President Joe La Rue, who took the lead in addressing employees regarding the decision, says he was glad to hear positive feedback regarding the mandate and will work with those who are still hesitant.
“We held a series of meetings with employees to discuss the scientific and medical reasons behind why this mandate is the right thing to do. We were pleasantly surprised to receive positive feedback on the move,” said La Rue. “For those who still have concerns and questions, we are having individual meetings and our medical director is also available to alleviate concerns. We value our team and are committed to doing our part in protecting the community and each other.”
Sun Health was one of the first senior living operations in the West Valley to administer the Moderna vaccine to residents and team members starting in December. Additionally, team members who provide documentation of being fully vaccinated on or before the deadline will receive a $100 incentive.
