Health Minister Marjorie Michel pledges to improve Canada’s Vaccine Injury Support Program amid growing criticism over delays and rising administrative costs.
Federal Minister Responds to Mounting Concerns
Health Minister Marjorie Michel acknowledged mounting concerns over Canada’s Vaccine Injury Support Program (VISP) on Monday, promising to “try to improve” its delivery of services. Speaking during a press conference in Moncton, N.B., Michel addressed the program’s shortcomings for the first time publicly following a months-long investigation and recent public criticism.
Program Under Fire for Delays and Mismanagement
Created in 2020 to compensate individuals seriously injured by vaccines, VISP has come under intense scrutiny for its slow response times and disproportionate administrative spending. The program, administered by Ottawa-based consulting firm Oxaro Inc., has paid out $18.1 million to claimants—but has spent over $36 million on administration, according to updated figures released last week.
Thousands Still Waiting for Decisions
Although originally expected to receive 40 to 400 valid claims annually, the program has been flooded with over 3,300 applications. More than 1,700 of those applicants are still awaiting decisions, raising concerns about the program’s capacity and efficiency. Some claimants have had to resort to online fundraising just to survive while waiting for support.
Critics Call for Parliamentary Investigation
The situation has triggered calls for a Commons committee investigation, with four Conservative MPs demanding accountability. A leading health foundation has also urged an overhaul, citing unacceptably slow processing and poor communication with applicants. Former VISP staff and several claimants allege the program was inadequately prepared and poorly managed from the outset.
Government Keeps Contract Options Open
When asked whether the federal government would renew Oxaro’s contract—set to expire next year—Michel did not rule out major changes. “Every option is on the table,” she said, adding that the current situation is “unacceptable” and that her department is closely monitoring the third-party provider.
Consulting Firm Defends Performance Amid Volume Surge
In response to criticism, Oxaro stated that it had significantly scaled up staffing and operations after applications surged to more than ten times original estimates. The firm said it continues to adapt procedures to manage the backlog while staying within budget guidelines, adding that all government payments are pre-approved through detailed monthly invoices.
Complexity of Claims Slows Compensation
Michel emphasized that while delays are concerning, many cases involve complex medical evaluations. “No, people shouldn’t wait if they really need services… but it’s more complex than this,” she said, suggesting that not all delays stem from mismanagement.
Calls for Transparency and Timely Justice Continue
As public trust in the program erodes, calls for transparency and reform grow louder. Advocates insist Canadians injured during the national vaccination campaign deserve timely and fair compensation—not a bureaucratic waiting game. Whether the government delivers on its promise to improve VISP remains to be seen in the months ahead.
For continuous coverage and real-time updates, keep following Maple News Wire.
