Doctors renew push for free COVID shots for more Albertans, after coverage reinstated for health workers – CBC
Some high-risk Albertans still have to pay out of pocket
Aug 21, 2025
Doctors are renewing their calls for the Alberta government to offer the COVID-19 vaccine for free to anyone who wants it, now that the province has agreed to cover health-care workers.
In June, the province announced plans to charge most Albertans for the COVID shot this fall. But after weeks of pushback from doctors, scientists and health-care unions, it partially walked back its decision this week.
On Tuesday, the Alberta government confirmed that health-care workers would be offered the COVID immunization, which is expected to cost more than $100 per shot, for free.
“I’m hoping this is a sign that the government is re-evaluating its policy, in part because it is so out of step with the rest of the country,” said Dr. James Talbot, a former chief medical officer of health in Alberta.
