The pandemic may well be over but experts still urge immunization. But will every province still fund vaccines?
“Your postal code should not determine your access to the best available vaccines and healthcare.”–Bill VanGorder, CARP’s Advocacy and Education Officer
The Current State of COVID-19
Canada’s early response to COVID-19 included strict public health measures like masking and social distancing to protect the most vulnerable.
While many feel COVID-19 is in the past, the reality is that the virus and its ramifications are still ongoing. It remains a leading cause of hospitalization in Canada, with over 60,000 deaths to date with over 80% of those aged 65 and older. While it may feel like life has returned to normal, COVID-19 continues to pose serious risks, especially to older Canadians and those with compromised immune systems. Staying up to date with COVID-19 vaccines is a simple yet effective way to reduce the risk of severe illness, hospitalization, or long-term complications.
The Future of Vaccine Funding
Recently, CARP conducted a survey of its members to ascertain what our members experience with vaccines and to understand how they feel about Canada’s vaccination policies.
https://www.carp.ca/2023/12/14/survey-says-carp-members-share-perspective-on-vaccinations/
CARP is concerned that there’s a risk that provinces may not fund major vaccines in the future. Seniors living under financial restraints may have to deal with having to pay for COVID vaccinations.
Affordability is a key factor in whether individuals choose to vaccinate. According to our recent CARP survey, over 50% of members do not have private coverage for vaccines.
Many respondents from our survey feel that they can’t afford vaccines, which are not funded by the government, even when experts recommended them. While approximately 88% of survey respondents had received or said they would receive flu and COVID vaccines in 2023, only 30% indicated they would do so if they had to pay for the vaccines themselves. That’s an attrition rate of 63% because of affordability.
CARP is asking the provincial governments to fund COVID-19 vaccines to ensure that all Canadians, regardless of their where they live, receive the vaccines recommended by the National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI) and other experts. Says Bill VanGorder, Advocacy and Education Officer, “Plainly put, your postal code should not determine your access to the best available vaccines and healthcare.”
Addressing Healthcare System Strain
It’s not just individuals who suffer when there are barriers in the way of accessing expert-recommended vaccines. Provinces cannot afford to underestimate the strain COVID-19 could place on healthcare systems if cases surge again. Many urban hospitals are already operating at or beyond capacity, especially during respiratory virus seasons, and healthcare worker shortages remain a critical issue.
While Canada’s capacity to domestically manufacture COVID-19 vaccines is anticipated to become available in the new year, the challenge lies in planning and readiness. Health ministers across Canada must prioritize this issue during their annual meetings to avoid repeating past mistakes.
CARP’s Call to Action
Older Canadians and those who are immunocompromised face significantly higher risks from COVID-19, and public health measures must reflect this reality. By maintaining free access to vaccines, strengthening infection control, and improving public education, governments can ensure seniors and vulnerable populations remain safeguarded against the ongoing risks of COVID-19.
Key areas for improvement include:
- Prioritize Education: Governments must take a more active role in educating the public about the risks of COVID-19 for seniors, as well as where and how to receive vaccination.
- Free and Accessible Vaccines: Ensure COVID-19 vaccines remain free and easily available to all who need them.
- Targeted Infection Control: Reinforce measures like mask mandates in healthcare and congregate living settings to protect those most at risk.
Raise your voice alongside of CARP’s: Contact your provincial elected representatives, and tell them you that government must prioritize senior health by ensuring continued, free COVID-19 vaccine access and comprehensive public health strategies.
