MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Ascension announced it will be requiring associates to get the COVID-19 vaccination on Tuesday, July 27.

Officials say all associates will be required to be vaccinated whether or not they provide direct patient care, and whether they work in its sites or care or remotely. This includes associates employed by subsidiaries and partners, physicians and advanced practice providers, whether employed or independent, and volunteers and vendors entering Ascension facilities. 

Officials say the requirement must be completed by Nov. 12., and that tens of thousands of Ascension associates have already been vaccinated. Ascension aligned its timing with the annual influenza vaccination requirement. Ascension will also provide a process for requesting an exemption for those who may not be able to get vaccinated due to a medical condition or strongly held religious belief. 

Ascension officials say they conducted a "thorough moral and ethical analysis as part of the decision-making process."

Ascension said in a statement, "This decision is rooted in our Mission commitment to leading with quality and safety. As a healthcare provider and as a Catholic ministry, ensuring we have a culture of safety for our associates, patients and communities is foundational to our work."