About 40 people wait in line for COVID-19 vaccines at the AHS Immunization Centre at Lethbridge's Exhibition Park Friday morning. (Lethbridge News Now)

By Justin Goulet / David Opinko

AHS adding staff to address long wait times at Lethbridge & Medicine Hat vaccine clinics

Apr 16, 2021 | 7:53 AM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – Alberta Health Services (AHS) is addressing recent concerns of long waits at COVID-19 immunization clinics in both Lethbridge and Medicine Hat.

AHS specifically mentioned Wednesday, April 14 as a day of concern when the two rapid flow clinics experienced long lineups of people waiting to get their vaccine.

On social media, AHS South Zone said, “as it was the first day of expanded immunization capacity at the two sites, challenges were identified and are being addressed to limit delays for clients.”

“We understand everyone is eager to receive their immunization. We want to reassure those who booked their appointment that they will be vaccinated.”

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LNN went to the Lethbridge AHS Immunization Centre Friday morning.

At the time we arrived at 10:00 am, there were about 40 people standing in line waiting to enter the building to get their shots.

We talked to a few people near the front of the line, all of whom said they had only been waiting for around 10 minutes.

They all told us they were happy with how quickly the line was progressing, especially considering the lengthy delays earlier this week.

AHS South Zone explained that additional staff and signage will be added to the clinics to encourage individuals with appointments to wait in their vehicles until five minutes prior to their appointment times.

It was noted that some people “are arriving 30-60 minutes early,” resulting in long lines being formed.

AHS South Zone added for those getting vaccinated to, “please respect each other’s designated appointment time and help ensure everyone continues to follow Alberta’s public health guidance.”

“We also ask that only those receiving their vaccination enter the immunization clinic unless you require assistance.”

Earlier this week, Alberta hit a major milestone, with AHS reporting that one million doses of various vaccines had officially been administered in the province.

READ MORE: Alberta reaches one million COVID-19 delivered vaccine doses

This past Monday, April 12, Alberta Premier Jason Kenney said the province is on pace to administer more than 300,000 doses of vaccine per week.