Alberta to expand access to free COVID-19 vaccines through pharmacies this fall

Eligible Albertans will once again be able to receive provincially funded COVID-19 vaccines at community pharmacies this fall, according to recent updates provided to pharmacists.

The Alberta government appears set to reverse last year's policy, which required many residents to pay $100 for a COVID-19 vaccine. Under that system, only people considered at high risk were eligible for free vaccinations, and those doses were available exclusively through public health clinics.

The decision drew widespread criticism, as many Albertans struggled to book appointments online and faced confusion over who qualified for free vaccines.

Now, a recent Alberta Blue Cross bulletin and an update from the Alberta College of Pharmacy indicate the province plans to broaden vaccine access once again.

The documents state that community pharmacies will be able to order and administer provincially funded COVID-19 vaccines to eligible Albertans, improving convenience and helping increase access ahead of the fall respiratory illness season.

The Alberta government has not yet announced full details of the expanded program, but the move is expected to make it easier for eligible residents to receive their vaccinations through local pharmacies.