The Government of Saskatchewan has announced the launch of Phase 2 of the Vaccine Delivery Plan with the introduction of booking eligibility online and by phone for residents 67 years and older. As of 12:00 p.m., eligibility for the online and phone-in booking system is expanded to the 67 years and older age group and those considered clinically extremely vulnerable. Phase 2 also includes select congregate living settings such as group homes for persons with intellectual disabilities, and emergency shelters.
Saskatchewan Health Authority CEO, Scott Livingstone, says about 80 per cent of those eligible in Phase 1 have had at least their first shots.
He notes that 80 per cent is a high percentage compared to other vaccines. What they have seen is that most of the appointment requests come in the first days after announcing the next eligibility phase. While the eligibility categories have broadened into the Phase 2 recommendations, vaccinations and eligibility for individuals identified in Phase 1 will continue until completed. This includes completing all first and second doses for long-term care and personal care home residents and staff.
Anyone who is 67 years old as of March 18, 2021 can go online to book an appointment here. You will need a Saskatchewan health services card and an email or cell phone in order to receive notification reminders of the appointment. Those without email or cell phones can call 1-833-Sask-Vax (727-5829).
As more vaccine becomes available in the coming weeks, clinics will be expanding across the province.
Individuals who may be considered clinically extremely vulnerable will receive a letter with instructions for booking appointments. A complete list of clinically extremely vulnerable conditions is available here.
Special Vaccination Leave Introduced
The Government of Saskatchewan has also amended The Occupational Health and Safety Regulations, 2020 to allow for paid time off from work for an employee to get vaccinated for COVID-19 and are effective immediately. Special Vaccination Leave is similar to provisions allowing residents to vote during a general election.
The new section 6-221, Special Vaccination Leave, establishes that during the pandemic:
• Workers are entitled to three consecutive hours leave during work hours to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.
• Workers are entitled to more than three consecutive hours if the employer determines the circumstances warrant a longer break from work.
• Workers do not lose any pay or other benefits while receiving a COVID-19 vaccination.
The new regulation is in effect as of Thursday.
