Calling it a “big step forward” in the province’s vaccine rollout program, the UCP government says front line health care workers and associated staff are now eligible to get their first dose of COVID-19 vaccine.
According to Premier Jason Kenney, that opens the door for close to 250,000 people to be vaccinated as part of phase 2C of the vaccine rollout, which begins today, Monday, April 12.
“Community physicians, nurses, pharmacists, dentists, and other health care professionals, such as chiropractors, massage therapists, physiotherapists and optometrists, will be able to book an appointment for their vaccination.”
“Support and associated staff of these health care professionals are also now eligible. This includes reception, cleaning and security staff.”
Premier Kenney adds other parts of the health care system not previously covered in their vaccination plan, are also now eligible to book an appointment.
“This includes anyone that is working in patient care facilities or providing services directly to clients in the community for Alberta Health Services, Covenant Health, Alberta Precision Labs, Dynalife, students doing practicums in clinical areas, and health care workers on First Nations.”
The move follows on the heels of around 55,000 hospital staff and paramedics in COVID wards, ICU’s and Emergency wards who have already received at least one dose of vaccine.
Kenney says more than 400,000 doses of COVID-19 vaccine have arrived over the past week, adding their roll out will continue to expand as more doses become available.
