Alberta pharmacies preparing to dispense free COVID shots this fall to eligible high-risk residents

Alberta pharmacies will dispense provincially funded COVID-19 vaccines to eligible residents again this fall, marking a reversal of last year's decision that restricted free shots to public health clinics and sparked widespread frustration over booking access.

Pharmacists received notice through Alberta Blue Cross and the Alberta College of Pharmacy that the province plans to broaden vaccine distribution through community pharmacies starting this fall. "Recognizing the capacity of community pharmacies to provide timely access to vaccines, Primary and Preventative Health Services is seeking to broaden vaccine distribution," the Alberta Blue Cross document states.

Last year, Alberta charged most residents $100 for COVID shots while limiting free doses to those deemed high-risk through public health clinics. Many Albertans struggled to book appointments online, and confusion about eligibility persisted. The Alberta government did not immediately provide detailed eligibility criteria to media, saying plans are still being finalized.

Heba Elbayoumi, owner of Heathers Pharmacy in Calgary, said last year's program was difficult for both patients and staff. "It was frustration all day long. It was a tough season for us," she said. She spent considerable time explaining eligibility rules and helping older patients navigate the government's online booking portal. "We saw a lot of people obviously decide not to go forward with the vaccine who wanted the vaccine," she added.

Pharmacies have a strong track record administering respiratory-illness vaccines, with longer hours and walk-in availability compared to public clinics. According to provincial data, just 8 per cent of Albertans received a COVID shot during the latest flu season, down from 14 per cent the previous season and 17 per cent before that.

Pharmacists typically receive details about fall immunization campaigns in August. The National Advisory Committee on Immunization continues to strongly recommend COVID shots for those over 65, care home residents, people with specific medical conditions, pregnant people, healthcare workers, and members of First Nations, Inuit, and racialized communities.