Experts Slam Alberta’s Paid COVID-19 Vaccine Plan as “Sabotage,” Warn of Barriers and Health Risks

August 18, 2025

RED FM News Desk

Health experts, advocacy groups, and unions are raising serious concerns over Alberta’s decision to charge for COVID-19 vaccines this year, calling the move confusing, harmful, and potentially dangerous for public health.

Online pre-orders for the vaccine opened this week, two months after the province announced the shots would no longer be free. Appointments will begin in October, but unlike previous years, vaccines will only be available through public health clinics—not pharmacies—further limiting access.

Dr. James Talbot, Alberta’s former chief medical officer of health, criticized the rollout, saying the province seems intent on making the immunization campaign “a failure” by reducing accessibility, affordability, and convenience. “They are basically sabotaging their own COVID campaign,” he said.

Leigh Allard, president and CEO of Alberta Lung, echoed those concerns, noting that Alberta is now an outlier compared to other provinces.

She worries the decision could set a harmful precedent nationally. People living with lung conditions like asthma or cystic fibrosis are especially at risk, she said.

Allard also highlighted the added confusion and logistical barriers created by the new policy—particularly for those who can’t afford the vaccine or travel to clinics during limited hours.

She anticipates increased demand for Alberta Lung’s financial aid services. “As a charity, we should not be filling a gap the government is creating,” she said.