UW Medicine continues to play a critical role in leading the response to COVID-19 at our hospitals and clinics. In support of this role, we must protect and preserve our workforce to serve patients and communities in the Puget Sound region and across the state.
With the significant increase in COVID-19 cases locally and nationally, UW Medicine is restricting work-related travel for all employees beginning Nov. 20, 2020, until further notice. These restrictions include travel for conferences and meetings related to professional membership societies and associations as well as meetings or gatherings related to grants.
UW Medicine also strongly discourages non-essential personal travel, including holiday travel. In addition to the risk of becoming ill, employees should consider the impact of personal travel on their work schedules based on the recent guidance from Washington state and the University of Washington to self-quarantine for 14 days at home after returning from out-of-state destinations.
Please see the recommendations from Governor Inslee and the UW for details: Inslee issues travel advisory for Washington and New state health restrictions and travel recommendations.
We recognize and greatly appreciate the continued sacrifices that our employees are making this year to protect our patients and communities. We understand that this is a difficult time. Your commitment and response to this pandemic now will give us the opportunity for safe travels in the future.
Sincerely,
UW Medicine Leadership
