A pharmacist holds a Pfizer and BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine shot on Thursday, April 24, 2025, in Portland, Ore. (AP Photo)
Alberta’s government has announced it will now cover the cost of COVID-19 vaccinations for health-care workers, marking a partial reversal from its earlier stance. The decision, revealed Tuesday, comes after months of pressure from unions and health experts.
A spokesperson for Primary and Preventative Health Services Minister Adriana LaGrange confirmed the change. “Immunization will remain voluntary,” said Maddison McKee in a statement, adding that vaccine coverage for health-care staff will begin this fall under the province’s phased rollout.
From Out-of-Pocket Fees to Coverage
Just two months ago, the province said most Albertans, including health workers, would need to pay for COVID-19 shots this season. The move sparked sharp criticism from unions and public health experts, who argued it was irresponsible to ask front-line workers to cover the cost of workplace protection.
Premier Danielle Smith had defended the policy at the time, noting Alberta had wasted $135 million on unused doses. She also pointed out that many other vaccines are not government-funded.
The government has not provided details on what led to the policy shift.
Union Pressure and Bargaining Tables
The Health Sciences Association of Alberta (HSAA), representing thousands of workers, had been urging the province to act. Its president, Mike Parker, welcomed the change and credited worker advocacy for the outcome.
“This is both in the interest of our members and the public,” Parker said. “It ensures health-care staff remain healthy and on the job. I’m pleased to see the policy is now inclusive of all health-care workers from the work we did.”
Parker added that the next step should be free access for all Albertans who want the vaccine.
Costs for Others Still Unclear
For Albertans outside the covered groups, the cost of each COVID-19 shot is expected to be around $110. The province has already said those with compromised immune systems, people on social programs, and seniors in congregate living will be covered. However, full details on eligibility remain incomplete.
Opposition NDP Leader Naheed Nenshi criticized the government’s handling of the rollout. “They continue to make this up as they go along. Albertans deserve better than this incompetence and confusion,” he said Tuesday.
New Rollout Process
Last week, Alberta opened online pre-ordering for both COVID-19 and flu shots, with appointments starting in October. Those who do not pre-order by September 30 can still book once doses arrive.
The government has ordered 485,000 COVID-19 vaccine doses for the fall, about 250,000 fewer than last year. Unlike past rollouts, local pharmacies will not carry the shots. Instead, vaccines will only be available through public health clinics in phased delivery.
Officials argue this approach will reduce waste and improve future ordering. Critics warn the changes will create barriers, especially in rural areas, and increase long-term health costs if fewer people are vaccinated.
National Guidelines
Canada’s National Advisory Committee on Immunization recommends that all adults 65 and older, along with health-care workers, receive the vaccine. While Alberta has now aligned its policy for health-care staff, many remain concerned about accessibility for the wider population.
Routine influenza vaccines remain free for all Albertans.
