FAIRBANKS, ALASKA (Oct. 1, 2021) – Foundation Health Partners (FHP) reports that all the organization’s employees are compliant with the COVID-19 vaccine policy. Eleven employees made the decision to leave the organization rather than get vaccinated or submit a medical or religious exemption.

Earlier this fall, the FHP board of directors voted to require the COVID-19 vaccine or an exemption for all employees, students, volunteers, contract personnel and independent practitioners providing care or services at any FHP facility with a deadline of Oct. 1.

“I appreciate the number of employees who chose to be vaccinated or to get an exemption. Although 11 is a small number in an organization of 1,850, we don’t like to lose any employees.” said FHP Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Angelique Ramirez. “For a large organization, we’re a tight knit group.”

Dr. Ramirez says that she understands that everyone must make their own decision about their health, but the organization has an obligation to protect patients and employees. In voting to approve the vaccine for all employees, the FHP board of directors followed the advice of the American Medical Association who support the COVID-19 vaccine as being the safest way to end the pandemic. FHP leadership is grateful for the employees who remain committed to providing the best, safest care possible to patients and residents.

FHP anticipates additional labor relief provided as part of the State of Alaska emergency response plan to include a total of 20 new, temporary employees. In addition, over 70 current employees offered to provide COVID relief as needed by signing up for the FHP labor pool. Members of the community are invited to apply for temporary or permanent positions.

“Alaskans are known for taking care of each other and this is an amazing example,’ said Ramirez, “Between the willingness of our employees and  relief from the state, I am so grateful.”

Foundation Health Partners

Foundation Health Partners (FHP) is a nonprofit, community owned health care system that operates Tanana Valley Clinic, Fairbanks Memorial Hospital and long-term care facility, Denali Center.

###