MOUNTAIN VIEW COUNTY – Jason Nixon, Sundre-area MLA and Minister of Assisted Living and Social Services, says he is confident that the Smith government decision to start charging most Albertans for the COVID-19 vaccine this fall will not lead to an increase in the disease in the province.
“No, I don’t anticipate that because I think the minister’s plan is well thought out,” Nixon told the Albertan. “Our government remains committed to making sure that the most vulnerable amongst us can be able to afford the medicine that they need, just like COVID vaccines.
“I’m really focused right now on making sure (residents in) continuing care facilities, individuals on AISH, individuals who find themselves on low-income circumstances receiving government supports can receive their vaccinations.
“The minister of primary care health services has laid out a plan for the province. I’m very confident with that plan she has laid out. Our ministry will continue to communicate with her ministry to make sure nobody falls through the cracks, to make sure those who need help to get vaccinations on the affordability side receive that help.”
Premier Danielle Smith says charging for the vaccine will reduce wastage and save taxpayers money.
Adriana LaGrange, Minister of Primary and Preventative Health Services, said, “by shifting to a targeted approach and introducing pre-ordering, we aim to better align supply with demand – ensuring we remain fiscally responsible while continuing to protect those at highest risk.”
Dr. Shelley Duggan, president of the Alberta Medical Association, said Alberta’s doctors have concerns with the plan to charge for the vaccine.
“As for the new COVID-19 vaccine policy, while seniors in congregate living facilities rightfully receive the vaccine for free, seniors in the community are not covered,” Duggan said in a statement.
“Creating unclear policy and barriers to vaccination for high-need groups is counter-productive to public health measures.”
The United Nurses of Alberta have also come out against the plan to charge for the vaccine.
“This is an extremely dangerous policy that will increase health-care costs as well as stress on the health-care system,” UNA President Heather Smith said in a release.
“The government’s claim that this is being done to save money and recover costs makes no sense from a moral or logical perspective. This policy is wrong for health-care workers and wrong for all Albertans.”
Nixon's Rimbey-Rocky Mountain House-Sundre riding includes a portion of Mountain View County.
