With the faster-spreading Delta variant driving an increase in new COVID-19 infections and hospitalizations, Gov. Gavin Newsom signed an executive order on Aug. 16 to ensure the state’s health care facilities continue to have the staffing and resources needed.

The order extends provisions implemented to expand the health care workforce during the pandemic, including allowing health care workers from out of state to provide services in California and enabling certain medical personnel and emergency medical technicians to continue supporting the state’s COVID-19 response. The order also gives health care facilities flexibility to plan and adapt their spaces to accommodate patients.

The order also provides more flexibility for retired teachers and school staff to return to fill short-term staffing shortages. Retired staff can assist schools impacted by the rising case rates caused by the Delta variant to stay fully open.

The California Department of Public Health also issued a new public health order on Aug. 16 requiring hospitals statewide to accept transfer patients from facilities with limited ICU capacity, when clinically appropriate.

The governor said vaccination is the most effective means of preventing COVID-19 infection, transmission and outbreak. California has vaccinated more people than any other state, with over 46 million doses administered and over 78% of those eligible having received at least one dose.

California has also implemented a requirement that health care workers be fully vaccinated, as well as stricter requirements for visitors at health care facilities. All school staff at public and private schools, and all state workers, are required to either show proof of full vaccination or be tested at least once per week. The state is encouraging local governments and other employers to adopt a similar protocol. The county and city of Los Angeles are currently considering mandating vaccinations for people entering public buildings.

For information, visit gov.ca.gov.