You Are Fired for Not Being Vaccinated -- But Now We Need You To Come Back

MaineGeneral Reaches Out to Nurses Fired for Not Being Vaccinated Against Covid

MaineGeneral Health in Augusta has reached out to health-care workers, many of whom were denied unemployment compensation after they were fired.  Former registered nurse Terry Poland shared the message she received from the employer that booted her.

“You were once a proud member of the MaineGeneral team. Would you consider rejoining us? We would be pleased to discuss options with you,” the facility told her in a text.  “As you know, nearly 2 years ago MaineGeneral had to comply with a state mandate for COVID-19 vaccination. We lost a number of great employees as a result, including you,” Maine General continued, noting that the vaccination rule has been waived by the state.

Despite hard economic times after losing her job, Poland, who made about $75,000 a year before being fired, was not tempted.  “I was livid. Like, how dare you force me out of a career that I’ve dedicated my whole life to, taken away my livelihood, my ability to earn a good income, and now you think I’m gonna come grovel back to you?” Poland said.  “I don’t hardly think so. And that’s the attitude of most everybody that I’ve been in contact with since yesterday.”  Joy McKenna, director of communications for MaineGeneral, said only “a few people” have been interested in returning.