Telework Updates & Special Leave Policy
In March 2020, UMMS instituted a new telework policy that directs all employees who can fulfill their job functions remotely to do so during the COVID-19 pandemic event. A decision was later made and communicated to all staff that Guidance on Telework During a Pandemic Event will remain in effect throughout the duration of the state of emergency, as declared by the State of Maryland, or until amended or rescinded by the UMMS CEO.
The policy was further revised on September 3, 2020. It reiterates that UMMS is continuing telework for eligible employees, as approved by local executive leadership, until further notice. Additionally, it clarifies that UMMS may choose to continue emergency telework beyond the declared state of emergency, based on evolving circumstances associated with the COVID-19 pandemic.
All normal productivity standards and requirements remain in place regardless of where you report to work. Your supervisor may also require you to report on site as necessary to support our mission, with as much advanced notice as possible. The policy outlines guidance for determining which job roles can be performed remotely, as well as provisions that should be made for employees in roles that require an on-site presence.
Please know that if you are required to work on site, UMMS is continuing to take all necessary and appropriate infection prevention measures to keep our workplaces safe. However, you must also do your part to protect yourself, your colleagues, our patients and visitors by wearing a mask at all times and maintaining social distances whenever possible.
Our UMMS leadership team is committed to taking measures to protect you and your families during these extraordinary times. In addition to telework options, our Pandemic Leave Policy is designed to reduce the burden and anxiety of employees who may become ill with COVID-19. If an employee tests positive for COVID-19, UMMS will retroactively apply paid administrative leave for all work hours missed during any period of self-quarantine that was required before the positive test result was reported, up to a total 30 days. Administrative leave will be calculated using the employee’s base rate of pay for the hours the employee was originally scheduled to work.
Please continue referencing these related policies and resources and reach out to your managers or the HRConnections Service Center at 855-486-6747 with any questions.
Thank you for your continued commitment to UMMS, as we continued to care for our patients, communities and each other during these challenging times.