B.C. seniors are facing an unfair economic burden as they are required to pay for the shingles vaccine, despite its proven effectiveness in preventing severe pain and even lowering dementia risk. Laura Tamblyn Watts, CEO of CanAge, a national seniors' advocacy organization, emphasizes that this is not only an issue of public health policy but also an economic one. With the vaccine costing around $160 per dose, many seniors are struggling to afford it, especially in regions with high living costs like the Lower Mainland and Sea to Sky. But here's where it gets controversial: the provincial government does not cover the shingles vaccine, unlike other regions in Canada that have shifted to providing seniors' coverage. This leaves seniors with no choice but to pay out of pocket, which can be a significant financial strain. And this is the part most people miss: the shingles vaccine is not only about preventing a painful condition but also about reducing the risk of dementia, as a 2024 study found that it lowers new dementia diagnoses by about 20%. So, why is B.C. not considering a publicly funded shingles vaccine program? The Ministry of Health states that it reviews the immunization program regularly and consults with experts, but the decision to fund the vaccine remains unclear. People with private health insurance plans are encouraged to reach out to their providers, but Tamblyn Watts suggests that employers should be doing more to cover all recommended vaccines. The economic impact of not funding the vaccine is profound, as it can save the healthcare system millions in treatment costs. The question remains: will B.C. take action to ensure that all seniors have access to this vital vaccine?
