The U.S. has been using a drive-thru option for delivering the COVID vaccine to those who are eligible, and Alberta Health says it is considering this approach.
“We are exploring many options, including drive-through sites, for when more vaccines become available,” said a spokesperson for Alberta Health in an emailed response.
The News has heard from several seniors in the community who have friends or family in the U.S. who have enjoyed the ease of a drive-thru vaccine option. For seniors who have difficulty walking or getting in and out of a vehicle, there are significant benefits.
Information online indicates a county in Minnesota began offering a drive-thru option at the end of December for individuals qualifying at that stage.
There are also reports of vaccine locations in Florida with a number offering the option of drive-thru. In some cases there are photos of the person resting their arm through an open car window. One person administers the shot while another appears to be doing the necessary paperwork without the patient ever leaving their vehicle.
The Canadian Vaccination Evidence Resource and Exchange Centre (CANVax) has an online presence supporting the efforts to promote the vaccine rollout.
CANVax says throughout the pandemic the number of face-to-face routine medical visits have been reduced in an effort to reduce transmission of COVID-19.
“One way to ensure that people continue to receive needed vaccines is to set up a curbside or drive-thru vaccination clinic,” says the organization online.
When it come to COVID testing, Alberta Health Services has already been using the drive-thru option.
