Canadian Press File Photo

By Troy Gillard

MEETING DEMAND DESPITE GLOBAL SHORTAGE

Hinshaw says Alberta making PPE distribution changes

May 25, 2020 | 5:07 PM

Alberta’s chief medical officer of health says the province will change how it distributes personal protection equipment in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Dr. Deena Hinshaw made the announcement Monday while sharing that 19 new cases of COVID-19 in Alberta over the past 24 hours bring the provincial total to 6,879.

Protecting vulnerable Albertans will remain paramount despite the PPE distribution changes.

“Thanks to the procurement expertise and relationships we’ve built in Alberta, we’ve been able to meet the demand despite enormous pressure on global supply chains. Now as more companies around the world produce PPE these items it’s easier to these products on the open market,” she said about items including masks, gloves and gowns.

“Going forward we will continue to prioritize PPE for those at highest risk of exposure COVID-19. The province will continue to ensure publicly funded or contracted setting will receive PPE at no extra cost.”

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That includes Alberta Health Services and Covenant Health Care workers, first responders and those working in homeless shelters and publicly-funded or contracted seniors’ care facilities, she added.

Private organizations can still get PPE through the government until June 30 for a fair market price. After that they will have to get PPE from their own suppliers.

Hinshaw said the province didn’t make the decision lightly and that it is in line with other jurisdictions across Canada.

She also said she’s encouraged by the early success of the relaunch and the low numbers being recorded. But, she cautioned, the full impact of the relaunch may not have been seen yet and will continue to watch as Calgary and Brooks reopen.

“This should be taken by Albertans as a really excellent sign, and a sign of what we can accomplish together when we continue to follow public health measures,” she said.

(With files from Chris Brown)