As the deadline looms for state healthcare workers to get vaccinated by the end of the month, thousands are seeking exemptions primarily based on religious grounds.
A federal mandate will require health care employees who work at facilities that accept Medicare and Medicaid to be vaccinated against COVID-19.
In addition, a California vaccine mandate requires health care workers to be vaccinated by Sept. 30.
So far, neither requirement has persuaded an estimated 3% of San Diego hospital staff members to get their shots.
San Diego health care providers have reported over 1,700 requests for exemptions from the vaccine requirement — most of them based on religious objections.
Paul Sisson, covers health care for The San Diego Union-Tribune, and joined Midday Edition on Monday with more on the story.