Help us reach 100% flu vaccination

See requirements for credentialed providers

Salem Hospital and West Valley Hospital Credentialed Providers:

We are asking for your help this year to reach our goal of having 100% of our credentialed and privileged medical staff vaccinated against influenza!

Providing a safe environment for patients, staff, volunteers and visitors is our top priority. For the upcoming influenza season, influenza vaccinations will be paramount to reduce the impact of respiratory illnesses in the population and resulting burdens on the healthcare system.

What do I need to do?

• Submit proof of flu vaccination to the Salem Hospital Medical Staff Office at MedicalStaffOffice@salemhealth.org or to the Employee Health Department by Friday, Nov. 14. Acceptable documentation includes:
  • A signed statement or form, or an electronic form or email from you indicating when and where you received the influenza vaccine, or
  • A note, receipt, vaccination card or similar documentation from an outside vaccinating entity confirming you received the influenza vaccine at their location.
  • NOTE: Verbal statements are not acceptable for this requirement.

What if I need an exception approved?

• By policy, the Medical Executive Committee may exempt a provider from the flu vaccination requirement under the following situations:
  • Medical: Severe allergy to vaccine components, or a history of Guillain-Barre syndrome within six weeks of a prior flu vaccine. Providers requesting a medical exception must submit documentation of the medical contraindication.
  • Religious: Special religious accommodations may be requested in writing and require MEC approval.
  • Request submittal: Please email MedicalStaffOffice@salemhealth.org to obtain the Salem Hospital MEC exception form.

Important changes to masking requirements, regardless of vaccination status

• Regardless of flu and COVID vaccination status, all practitioners are required to comply with any “mask on” mandates during respiratory season. The definition of “mask on” will be determined by Salem Health Infection Prevention and approved by the CEO. Masks will be required when in clinical areas, defined as patient rooms and treatment rooms in the following areas: Inpatient units, outpatients departments, surgical departments, SHMG clinics, WVH and overflow or surge spaces such as ED hall beds. Masks are not required in non-clinical areas, including registration, waiting rooms or hallways and nursing stations within patient care areas. The “mask on” policy will remain in effect until Infection Prevention and the CEO notify staff that the “mask off” status in in place for the respiratory season.

Where do I get my flu vaccination?

See the schedule here.

Thank you for helping to keep our shared patients and collective staff healthier during this year’s flu season.