WORCESTER, Mass. - The November 1 deadline is approaching for all UMass Memorial Health employees required to get at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, unless they have a medical or religious exemption. 

“We have a responsibility at UMass Memorial to ensure that we keep our patients and our caregivers safe," UMass Memorial Health president and CEO, Dr. Eric Dickson, said. "And the best way to keep them safe from COVID, is to ensure that everybody that they encounter is vaccinated."

Dr. Dickson says about 1,600 employees are unvaccinated. Right now, unvaccinated workers are being tested weekly and are wearing N-95 masks. Managers who had to receive on dose by October 1 are working to educate employees on the vaccine and help them file for exemptions.

Dickson says they are following federal vaccination requirements from President Joe Biden.

“We are trying to get some guidance there, but we do anticipate that ultimately we will not be able to employ these individuals if they're not vaccinated," Dr. Dickson said.

A small group is protesting the vaccine requirement. One ER tech who wanted to remain anonymous sent Spectrum News 1 a statement saying quote “We feel like we are being pushed into something.”

Dr. Dickson says employees would likely be suspended before they’re terminated. The system is already dealing with a full ICU and a shortage of workers. It’s a trend Dr. Dickson says is being seen through out the country.

“A lot of people have gotten out of healthcare since the COVID crisis," Dr Dickson said. "Our folks are exhausted. They've been working extra hours. I can't thank them enough."

Dickson says UMass Memorial is also working on getting employees vaccinated against the flu, but they’re behind because of the COVID-19 vaccination effort. Right now, employees are expected to receive that shot by December.