As of November 15, QR codes will begin to be phased in as the province moves to a more digitalized approach to checking COVID vaccination records.
As a result, restaurants and businesses participating in the Restrictions Exemption Program (REP) will require patrons to show proof of vaccination with a QR code. This new method will see QR codes scanned by the government of Alberta's official verifier app.
Chris Hartman, owner and chef of Fence and Post, said he expects the QR code will present some obstacles.
"Health care is still provincial, so all records are provincially kept, not federally kept," he said. "The participation of each individual province to do this with the federal government streamlining things and the track record of Alberta so far is they got a QR code with no scanner until two weeks later, so we will see how things go."
Hartman said he has downloaded QR reader apps from various provinces to accommodate all guests who may be dining in his restaurant. Another challenge he has encountered is a prolonged hello.
"Very few people are actually ready with everything out," said Hartman.
Hartman pointed out the logistics behind the new QR codes will take some time to sort out. Although he has and will be using the verifier app to check vaccination authenticity, he said he will continue to accept paper documentation as well.
"What boggles my mind is COVID's been going on for over a year, year-and-a-half, so why is this taking so long, why is this so difficult, I mean this is what we pay our government officials to help us with," he questioned.
Cochranites can anticipate REP requirements when participating in any activity or event booked within the Town as Kristie Bell, manager of the RancheHouse event centre, community events and culture, explained will allow for a safe experience.
"It's the reality of the days," she said. "If we want to have a great event, we have to comply with the rules."
Bell added kindness has been prevalent during the recent implementation of the REP program as many individuals understand this is something everyone is going through, together. She added that providing vaccination status with the new QR codes will be the first course they will go, but will accept previous methods as well.
"There are several complications that are still being ironed out by the Province," said Bell. "We are doing our best in trying to help clients be able to comply as best they can, but all of these things are new and shifting, and I know there has been some hiccups with the scanner only working on certain types of devices as well."
For those interested in having their QR codes printed out, Cochrane Registries is now offering this service to its clients. It is free of charge, unless you would like it laminated for $1. An Alberta Health Care number is required to get the QR code.
