People thought to be at high risk from COVID-19 in the province are now qualified to be immunized, with the first phase of the government’s controversial new vaccine rollout now in action.
Free vaccines are available to elders living in long-term care, health-care workers and people with underlying medical conditions. The province’s controversial plan, announced earlier this year, plans to charge most Albertans $100 dollars for the newly formulated COVID-19 shot. Government said waste and high prices as reasons for the change. For those deemed eligible for a free vaccine, immunization appointments ate available now. Albertans who must pay for doses will have to wait until October 20 for vaccine appointments.
The province first said vaccines would only be provided through public health clinics; however Alberta Health Services says on its website that the shots could be available at pharmacies at a cost. The new policy makes Alberta one of the only Canadian provinces that does not provide free universal access to COVID-19 shots.