At the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, Intermountain added a new, temporary role to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. Our screeners—also known as greeters—have been the first point of contact when entering our facilities. They’ve screened for COVID-19 symptoms, distributed hand sanitizer and masks, and directed people as needed. More than that, they’ve helped create a welcoming, safe environment during this uncertain time.
Because of the continued decline in COVID-19 cases Intermountain is discontinuing screener roles in our facilities, effective April 30. This change will affect about 200 temporary caregivers. Human Resources business partners (HRBPs) will work one-on-one with impacted caregivers to identify job opportunities that align with their needs and preferences. Intermountain has hundreds of open positions, and HR leaders are confident they can place all caregivers who want to stay with Intermountain. Caregivers who have been picking up shifts as a screener in addition to their regular job responsibilities can do so until April 30. Caregivers with ADA accommodations as a screener will work with Employee Relations on a new placement.
“I want to extend our sincere thanks to caregivers who’ve worked tirelessly to take care of anyone who entered our facilities during the pandemic,” says Jim Sheets, vice president and chief operating officer of Specialty-Based Care. “This hasn’t been an easy task as they’ve had to answer hard questions and manage expectations of people who haven’t always agreed with our policies. Our screeners have played an important role in keeping our caregivers and patients safe.”
What happens next? There will no longer be a screener at the entrances of our facilities after April 30. Visitors are still required to mask and shouldn’t enter the facility if they’re experiencing any symptoms of illness. Every caregiver will share accountability to enforce masking among patients and visitors within our facilities and escalate any issues through appropriate channels, such as leadership or Security. Signage will be posted in the entrances to remind visitors of our policies and procedures, with masks and hand sanitizer readily available for those who need it.
All caregivers are still required to screen for COVID-19 symptoms on arrival at our facilities for their shift, as recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). With the phase-out of the screener program, your facility’s leadership will ensure there is a defined process to complete this task, if there isn’t another option already available, and share it with you.
If Intermountain experiences another COVID-19 surge, the need for screeners will be re-evaluated.
Because HRBPs will help transition impacted caregivers, response times from the HRBP Hub may be delayed up to seven business days. Thank you for your patience and flexibility.
For questions about this change, please speak with your facility leadership team or contact Ask HR at 801-442-7547 or askhr@imail.org.