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HMSA Joins Local and National Health Systems in Requiring COVID-19 Vaccinations for Employees

Aug. 09, 2021

HMSA Joins Local and National Health Systems in Requiring COVID-19 Vaccinations for Employees

The Hawai’i Medical Service Association (HMSA) will join other local and national health organizations in requiring their employees to be vaccinated against COVID-19.

“The science clearly shows that vaccines save lives,” said HMSA President and Chief Executive Officer Mark M. Mugiishi, M.D., F.A.C.S. “As the delta variant continues to cause alarming increases in COVID-19 case counts here locally, we are making the move to mandate vaccines for our workforce. This change will help ensure the safety and security of our workplace, workforce, and members as well as contribute to the larger effort to eliminate this threat from our community.”

This vaccine mandate is a condition of employment for all employees as well as for any vendors or contractors who come into contact with HMSA’s workplace, workforce, and members.

Requests for medical or religious exemptions pursuant to law will be considered on an individual, case-by-case basis and may be made to Human Resources. Exempted employees will, at a minimum, be required to undergo appropriate frequent and regular testing. 

In making this decision, HMSA reviewed recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Occupational Safety and Health Administration, Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, and state and county mandates.

About HMSA

Caring for the people of Hawaii is our promise and our privilege. Working together with employers, partners, and physicians and other health care providers, we promote well-being; develop reliable, affordable health plans; and support members with clear, thoughtful guidance.

HMSA is the most experienced health plan in the state, covering more than half of Hawaii’s population. As a recognized leader, we embrace our responsibility to strengthen the health and well-being of our community.

Headquartered on Oahu with centers and offices statewide to serve our members, HMSA is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association.

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