alberta to Charge for COVID-19 Vaccine, Citing Past Waste & Federal Funding Shift
Edmonton, Alberta – Alberta residents will soon face a $100 fee for a COVID-19 vaccine, a decision Premier Danielle Smith attributes to past overspending on medications and a change in federal funding. Speaking on a provincial radio broadcast Saturday, Smith explained the charge is a response to important financial losses stemming from a $70 million purchase of 1.4 million medication bottles from Turkey in 2022, made during a national shortage.
A substantial portion of that initial purchase ultimately went unused and was donated to regions impacted by war. This prompted concerns about waste, wiht Smith stating, “People were really angry at the idea that $20 million in products could be wasted.” The province is now aiming to minimize further losses, particularly as the federal government has declined to cover the cost of this season’s vaccines.
“When the federal government announced to us this season that it did not pay it, we had to ask quite arduous questions about the number of people who have access to it, the quantity we command and the quantity wasted,” Smith explained. She revealed the province has wasted a total of $284 million in unused medications over the past three years and pledged greater clarity regarding wastage figures this year.
Who Will Be Affected?
While most Albertans will be required to pay for the vaccine, certain groups will remain eligible for free vaccination.These include healthcare workers, seniors, and individuals with underlying health conditions affecting the lungs or heart. appointments for these groups begin October 1st, with paid appointments available three weeks later. The initial plan to have healthcare workers cover the cost was altered following union negotiations, Smith noted.
furthermore, vaccine distribution will shift from pharmacies to public health clinics.
Facing Criticism
the decision to charge for the COVID-19 vaccine has drawn criticism, as all other Canadian provinces and territories continue to offer the vaccine free of charge. Smith defended the move, citing the limited shelf life of the vaccine and the lack of federal funding.She also differentiated COVID-19 from the flu, noting that flu vaccines will remain free, as Health Canada recommends universal flu vaccination due to its impact on vulnerable populations.
Concerns Raised by Health Experts
Public health experts have condemned the strategy, labeling it irresponsible and warning it will create barriers to vaccination and perhaps increase healthcare costs. Opposition parties are calling for expanded coverage, including for all seniors.
Smith stated the government will monitor the impact of the new policy and allow the public to judge its effectiveness. “People will then make a judgment on politics,” she concluded.
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