Essential Healthcare Workers

  • The  "Stay at Home Order" includes a definition of "essential business".  Ohio has largely followed the guidance on essential business from the Department of Homeland Security.   Healthcare and Public Health services are considered "essential" and Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder Providers are considered in the definition of "essential" healthcare services.  Further, the order also includes mental health and substance use disorder providers in the definition of "home based care and services" and "residential facilities and shelters".  

    Please be sure to read item #18 beginning on the bottom of page 8 that defines the "COVID-19 Checklist for Business/Employers" describing the      steps essential business are expected to take to preserve the health and well-being of our essential workforce.  You will want to review and revise your  business practices to the degree possible to adopt these measures. 

            The Governor's office released a Stay at Home FAQ to help clarify essential business for the general public. 

  • CHC Addiction Services and Maryhaven have graciously shared examples of a letter to provide your staff to indicate they are essential healthcare workers that you may consider as samples. It's a good idea to make sure your employees have a copy of such a letter and/or have their workplace ID on their person if your organization issues ID badges.