Public Health Agency of Canada Overhauls Vaccine Injury Compensation Program
Event summary
- PHAC took over administration of the Vaccine Impact Assistance Program (VIAP) from OXARO Inc. on April 1, 2026.
- Over 2,000 active claims and appeals are being processed under the new system.
- A new secure online portal has been launched to streamline claim submissions and tracking.
- An external compliance audit of OXARO's administration identified areas for program management improvement.
The big picture
The transition of VIAP administration from OXARO to PHAC reflects a broader trend in public health governance toward greater direct oversight of critical programs. This shift aligns with increasing scrutiny over vaccine injury compensation systems globally, particularly as governments balance the need for accountability with efficient claim resolution. The program's scale—with over 2,000 active claims—positions it as a key indicator of how Canada manages long-term health impacts from COVID-19 vaccination efforts.
What we're watching
- Governance Dynamics
- How PHAC's centralized administration will affect claim processing times and transparency compared to OXARO's previous management.
- Operational Efficiency
- Whether the new online portal can sustain improved responsiveness and reduce backlog in active claims.
- Regulatory Compliance
- The pace at which PHAC implements audit recommendations to strengthen program oversight and claimant support.