Operation VOTE is a partnership of Cincinnati area hospital systems, the Health Collaborative and the Hamilton County Board of Elections designed to provide voter registration education to hospital associates. Participating hospitals include: UC Health, TriHealth, Christ, Mercy and St. Elizabeth.
Is the focus only on hospital associates?
Operation Vote as organized by The Health Collaborative is focusing only on hospital associates, but as the adult academic medical center in our community, we made the decision to include patients in our initiative.
What are the dates?
August 31- November 2, 2020
Why are we doing this?
Across the country there is a movement recognizing that civic health is tied to mental and physical health, with civic engagement playing an important role in changing health outcomes. As a major employer and adult healthcare provider in our community, we believe we have a role in educating our colleagues, friends and neighbors on the importance of taking part in our democracy. We believe that encouraging civic engagement by our associates and patients aligns with our four core strategy of improving the physical and economic health of our community. Plans for UC Health’s engagement in Operation VOTE was agreed to by the Executive Leadership Team late 2019 and presented to representatives from departments across the organization on January 23, 2020.
So, what exactly are we giving patients?
In certain settings, we are providing patients with a one-page flyer with links and QR Codes for the voter registration information sites of the Ohio, Kentucky and Indiana Secretary of State offices. Patients can visit these sites to check the status of their voter registration, register to vote and access information on early voting and mail-in voting. There will also be posters on the wall including this same information.
When I give a patient this flyer, what I am I supposed to say?
We are not asking hospital staff to engage in lengthy conversations regarding this information, and conversations regarding candidates or political parties is strictly prohibited. The following phrases are appropriate:
“Election Day is November 3, so we’re reminding all our patients to make sure they vote. Attached is information on registering to vote and how to check your registration status.”
OR
“There’s a lot of information out there about voting in the November 3 election, so here’s a flyer with links to the most up to date information on registering to vote as well as in person and mail-in voting.”
“Election Day is November 3, so we’re reminding all our patients to make sure they vote. Attached is information on registering to vote and how to check your registration status.”
Patient:
“I’m already registered to vote and I know my information is current.”
Staff:
“That’s great! Please remind your family and friends to register, too.”
Patient:
“I don’t want to register.” or “I don’t care about voting.”
Staff:
“Okay. Well, here’s the information in case you change your mind, or feel free to share it with a friend or family member. (Move on, don't engage.)
Patient:
“I’m worried about COVID-19.”
Staff:
“I understand. Most states are offering early voting or mail-in voting. You can visit the link or scan the code for your state to find out your options.”
Patient:
“Why are you talking about voting? I’m here for health care.”
Staff:
“I understand. We just want to make sure all our patients have information on registering to vote.” (Move on, don't engage.)
Patient:
“I don’t want that.”
Staff:
“No problem.” (Set flyer aside. Do not engage.)
Our goal is to simply provide voter registration information. It is not our role to advance a certain position other than voting is important and we hope you’ll exercise your right to do so. And, please remember that we must maintain a non-partisan environment for all patients, visitors and employees. Campaigning for any candidate or issue is prohibited by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) in our work environments, and political messaging may not be added to your badge or uniform.
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The one question addition to the Social Hx:
“With all that’s going on with COVID-19, I want to make sure you can vote in a safe and healthy way if you’re able to this election. Are you ready to vote in the upcoming election?“
