Health-care unions call for Alberta to reverse plan to limit free COVID-19 vaccines – CBC

Unions say forcing front-line workers to pay could put more people in danger

Jun 17, 2025

Two of Alberta’s health-care workers’ unions are calling on Alberta Premier Danielle Smith’s government to reverse its policy forcing many — including front-line medical staff — to pay for a COVID-19 vaccination.

Smith has said the aim of the new policy, announced last week, is to prevent wastage after some $135 million was spent on unused doses.

Smith said her government is focused on protecting those who need it the most by giving them the COVID-19 shot for free. That includes those with compromised immune systems, those on social programs and seniors in a congregate setting.

However, most Albertans, including health-care workers who don’t fall into a high-risk category, and seniors who live independently, will have to pay out of pocket.

Read more: https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/edmonton/unions-alberta-reverse-plan-limit-free-vaccines-1.7562929