Some hospitals in New York state are bracing for disruptions due to staff shortages triggered by a COVID-19 vaccine mandate that takes effect on Monday for healthcare workers. “We’re anticipating a problem,” said Michael Balboni, executive director of the Greater New York Health Care Facilities Association, according to the Wall Street Journal. “There are already many nursing homes that have not been taking new admissions over the last weeks, and looking at their staffing routines so they basically stretch.” Ahead of anticipated staffing problems, Democrat Gov. Kathy Hochul said on Sept. 25 she was prepared to activate National Guard members who have medical training to replace the healthcare workers. She also said that providers can allow workers licensed in other states and countries, as well as recent graduates and retired healthcare professionals to work in the state. Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester, located upstate, announced it would pause some elective …