What the new program covers in phase one
On October 1, Alberta rolled out the first phase of its new COVID-19 vaccination program. Free doses are available for a limited set of groups: seniors living in long-term care facilities, people aged 65 and older, frontline health workers, and individuals with underlying medical conditions. The remaining residents are expected to pay 100 CAD per dose this autumn, with appointments opening to the broader public on October 20.
Booking challenges and access lines
Even as clinics opened, several Albertans faced hurdles booking a shot. Nicole Perry, a health-care worker, described persistent trouble with the online system and a difficult line to reach on the health information service 811. She recalled hearing that the system was extremely busy and that repeated calls ended with a disconnection. Officials have emphasized the online booking path, but for many, especially those not eligible for free vaccines, navigating a new system amid a busy fall season is proving tricky. Some patients reported they did not even know the sites were open yet.
Pricing, clinics, and pharmacies
The government previously indicated vaccines would be delivered through public health clinics, but Services de santé Alberta says vaccines could also be available in pharmacies for an extra charge. Mohamed Elfishawi, who runs two Edmonton pharmacies, notes that pharmacies must order vaccines directly from suppliers, which raises costs. In his pharmacies, the vaccine would cost about 20 dollars more than the 100 dollars charged by public health clinics. He warned that charging higher prices could reduce access for patients who aren’t comfortable with online or phone booking and urged the government to reconsider.
Expert concerns about equity and health impacts
Immunologist Dawn Bowdish warns that the move could have consequences for vulnerable populations and the health system as a whole. She has spoken with many vulnerable people who say that if the vaccine is important, the government should pay for it. Bowdish argues that making vaccination a paid service may convey that it isn’t essential and widen the gap between those who can pay and those who cannot. Infections that require hospitalization disproportionately affect those with fewer financial resources.
Comparative context and what comes next
With this policy, Alberta is the only Canadian province not offering universal free COVID-19 vaccination. The government says the shift helps curb vaccine waste and offset rising costs, but critics fear it undercuts access for the most vulnerable. The policy raises questions about how the system will fare during the autumn vaccination campaign and whether accessibility will be protected for people with limited digital or telephone access.
Looking ahead
As the October 20 window for paid doses approaches, Albertans and health professionals are watching closely to see how the system adapts, how clinics coordinate with pharmacies, and whether the policy may be revised. Advocates argue that preserving broad access should remain a priority to prevent disparities during a critical public health period.
