During the COVID-19 pandemic, neighbourhood pharmacies have been stepping up to help vaccinate older people against the virus. Now, with an estimated 1 in 4 adults at risk of not being vaccinated against common diseases like the flu, shingles and pneumonia, pharmacies are asking government to let them administer these other vaccines as a core part of Canada’s health care team.
CanAge has been advocating for easier access across Canada to the recommended vaccines against common and preventable diseases for older adults. Pharmacies are a key access point for many seniors who struggle to visit their general care provider due to reasons related to mobility, living in rural setting, social isolation, lack of transportation or health restrictions.
According to a recent 19 to Zero survey commissioned by Neighbourhood Pharmacies:
- Almost 70 per cent of Canadians support routine vaccinations being made available at pharmacies.
- 70 per cent of delayed or missed vaccinations could have been avoided with improved access to a healthcare provider.
- 95 per cent of Canadians live within five kilometres of a pharmacy.
There are currently 2 advocacy campaigns running in the provinces of Ontario and British Columbia.