Advocating for Free Vaccinations to Reduce Healthcare Costs

The push for free vaccinations has gained momentum in Canada, with advocates arguing that universal access could significantly reduce healthcare costs, particularly for seniors. A recent analysis highlights how providing all Canadians with free vaccinations could alleviate financial burdens associated with hospitalizations and emergency care.

A trip to a local pharmacy in British Columbia (B.C.) revealed that while flu and COVID-19 vaccinations are offered at no cost to residents, other vital vaccines come with hefty price tags. The vaccination for respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) costs approximately $300, while the shingles vaccine, recommended for adults aged 50 and older, is priced at around $160 per dose. For many seniors, the decision to pay for these vaccines can be daunting, particularly when considering their limited budgets.

According to the Canadian Institute for Health Information (CIHI), per capita healthcare spending in B.C. reached an average of $9,673 in 2024. Notably, expenditures for seniors aged 65 and older averaged $14,042 per capita. This trend demonstrates a substantial financial focus on older adults, who account for approximately 45 to 50 percent of healthcare spending in the province.

The B.C. Office of the Seniors Advocate reported that in 2023, seniors represented about a quarter of all emergency visits and 47 percent of hospitalizations. Seniors spent an average of 8.6 days in hospitals, significantly longer than their younger counterparts. Given these statistics, the financial implications of treating complications from diseases like RSV and shingles become clear.

While most individuals suffering from shingles or RSV manage their conditions at home, hospitalizations can still occur. Estimates suggest that around 130,000 Canadians contract shingles annually, with B.C. accounting for approximately 13,000 to 15,000 cases. The Shingles Matters policy brief indicates that up to 1,000 patients in B.C. may be hospitalized each year due to shingles complications.

The situation is similar for RSV, which leads to 900 to 1,200 hospitalizations among seniors annually. The Canadian Public Health Association estimates that a hospital stay for RSV can cost about $5,000 for a five to six-day treatment, with intensive care cases potentially reaching $20,000.

The introduction of effective vaccines, such as Arexvy for RSV, shows promise, demonstrating an efficacy rate of 82.6 percent against lower respiratory tract disease and 94.6 percent against severe cases. Despite this, vaccination rates among seniors in B.C. remain low—only about 12 to 15 percent have received the RSV vaccine, with higher uptake in long-term care facilities.

In contrast, the shingles vaccine, Shingrix, has a 90 percent efficacy rate and is publicly funded in provinces like Ontario and Prince Edward Island, where uptake ranges from 47 to 57 percent. This disparity raises questions about the accessibility of vaccines and their role in public health.

A growing body of literature emphasizes the importance of adult vaccination as a critical tool for healthy aging and sustainable healthcare systems. An editorial in the November 2023 issue of The Lancet Infectious Diseases underscored the potential for adult vaccination to reduce healthcare costs associated with preventable diseases and promote overall health.

Implementing free vaccinations could lead to improved health outcomes for seniors and a reduction in the demand for emergency and hospital care. By making vaccines universally available, Canada could enhance public health, leading to healthier, more independent older adults.

The debate surrounding free vaccines highlights an essential aspect of a civilized society: equitable access to healthcare resources. Advocates argue that universal vaccination should be viewed as a right, akin to safe drinking water, ensuring that all individuals can benefit from preventive measures without facing financial obstacles.