UnitedHealth Group is implementing a COVID-19 vaccination requirement for a "significant portion" of its U.S.-based team, according to an Oct. 5 announcement.
The policy applies to all staff who enter company facilities and those who meet in person with customers, members, providers or suppliers. Workers must be vaccinated by Nov. 30 but can request exemptions for medical or religious reasons.
"Employees who do not comply, are unable to be accommodated based on their role, or do not receive an exemption will be placed on unpaid leave and may be terminated if they have not completed their COVID-19 vaccination series," the insurer said in a statement.
UnitedHealth Group, the country's largest insurer, is providing a team of clinicians and experts to discuss the vaccine with employees.