[Translated from French]

This fall, the COVID-19 vaccine will no longer be offered free of charge to the entire population, unlike in previous years. Quebec, now responsible for purchasing doses, will offer them free of charge only to those deemed at higher risk, Le Devoir has learned.

This information, which was communicated to pharmacies, was later confirmed to Le Devoir by the office of Health Minister Christian Dubé.

Quebec will therefore reserve the free doses during the vaccination campaign for people aged 65 and over, residents of CHSLDs, private seniors’ residences (RPAs), and other congregate settings with many vulnerable seniors, those who are immunocompromised or suffering from chronic illnesses, as well as pregnant women.

Healthcare workers and adults living in remote and isolated areas are also included in the free coverage.

For the rest of the population, it will now be necessary to turn to pharmacies, where fees will be charged. The Ministry of Health and Social Services (MSSS) estimates the cost of a dose at around $100, but in pharmacies, the total bill including administration fees could reach $150 to $180, according to the Quebec Association of Pharmacist Owners.