AHS experiences high booking volumes as it begins Phase 2A of COVID-19 vaccine rollout

Alberta moved into Phase 2A of its COVID-19 vaccine rollout on Monday morning, and just prior to launch, Alberta Health Services (AHS) announced that there would be a delay in scheduling appointments using their online booking tool.

Beginning at 8 am on March 15, Albertans born in 1947 or earlier, First Nations, Métis, and Inuit individuals born in 1962 or earlier could book appointments for their COVID-19 vaccination.

Seven minutes before Phase 2A appointments were set to open, AHS tweeted that the online booking tool was experiencing “intermittent issues” and advised Albertans to book their appointments by calling 811, or through participating pharmacies.

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The online booking system went live a few hours later, shortly after 10 am; however, AHS noted that there may still be delays with both the online system and through 811 due to high volumes.

We anticipate high volumes and request your patience. Those trying to access the site may need to refresh their screen.

— Alberta Health Services (@AHS_media) March 15, 2021

AHS suggests booking appointments during off-peak times – after 5 pm and before 7 am.

Phase 2A of the vaccine rollout includes those born between 1947 and 1956, or First Nations, Inuit and Métis born in 1971 or earlier.

Participating pharmacies are now taking appointments for all Phase 2A age groups, while bookings through AHS are rolling out by birth year.

More appointments through AHS will be opening up by birth year in the coming days, and eligibility will be communicated daily by Alberta Health Services through their website, news release, and social media.

Those eligible in this group will be given the Moderna or Pfizer vaccine.

As of March 13, the province says that 357,983 doses of the COVID-19 vaccine have been administered, with 91,538 Albertans having received the 2 doses that it takes to be fully immunized.