COVID-19 VACCINE REQUIREMENT
The California Department of Public Health issued a public health order on September 28, 2021, requiring certain providers to be fully vaccinated with the COVID-19 vaccine by November 30, 2021.
This health order does not apply to a provider who:
- Lives with the recipient(s), or
- Provides services to a family member(s); and
- Only provides services to a single household.
If your provider is not related to you and/or does not live with you, they must get vaccinated.
Your provider may request for an exemption from the vaccine requirement for a qualified medical reason or religious belief. To be exempted, your provider must provide you a signed copy of the COVID-19 Vaccination Exemption Form.
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To qualify for the qualified medical reason exemption, your provider must include a written statement signed by the doctor, nurse practitioner, or other licensed medical professional under the license of a physician, stating that the provider qualifies for the exemption and indicating the length of the exemption (may be unknown or permanent).
If you have determined that your provider is eligible for one of the exemptions, then, you must require your provider to:
- Obtain a weekly COVID-19 test at one of the State testing sites (COVID-19 Testing Sites in California) until vaccinated; and
- Wear a surgical mask or N95 mask, at all times, while providing services in your home. Masks may be obtained from the Personal Assistance Services Council (PASC).
NOTE: As the recipient and employer of record, you are responsible for requesting from your provider the proof of vaccination or the completed and signed vaccination exemption form, determine whether your provider is eligible for an exemption, and enforce the vaccination requirements.
IMPORTANT: If your provider tests positive for COVID-19, they should not be providing IHSS services. For help with finding a new care provider during your provider’s absence, you can contact: