On March 31, the ImmunizeBC website will move over to HealthLinkBC.ca After this date, you will be automatically redirected to HealthLink BC’s Immunization landing page. HealthLink BC provides trusted health information online and over the phone 24 hours a day, seven days a week by calling 8-1-1.
Question:
Why aren't all vaccines free in BC?
Answer:
In BC, the Ministry of Health makes decisions to fund vaccine programs based on recommendations from the Communicable Disease Policy Advisory Committee. This expert scientific committee looks at the following:
- Statements issued by Canada’s National Advisory Committee on Immunization.
- The published literature (studies about certain vaccines and diseases).
- The product monograph (information about the vaccine from the manufacturer).
- Provincial epidemiology (how often the disease occurs in different groups of people in the province).
- Available health economic analyses (an analysis of the costs and benefits of the vaccine).
Recommendations for new vaccine programs are then prioritized with other public health initiatives. As a result, not all vaccines approved for use in Canada are funded by the provincial government.
Date last reviewed:
Tuesday, Nov 15, 2022