Simon Fraser University Study Challenges Individual Choice Narrative by Identifying Structural Barriers to Vaccine Access in Canada

New research from Simon Fraser University reveals that vaccine gaps in Canada are caused by systemic barriers and mistrust, not just individual choices.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 13, 2026, 5:22 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from Simon Fraser University

Deconstructing the Personal Choice Myth

The prevailing social narrative that non-vaccination is purely a personal decision is being challenged by new research from Simon Fraser University (SFU). Published in the journal Vaccine, the study argues that this "easy narrative" is both unfair and incomplete, as it ignores the systemic hurdles that prevent individuals from accessing healthcare. Lead author Haaris Tiwana explains that when systems build in unnecessary extra steps, individuals who are not necessarily "anti-vax" simply remain unvaccinated due to logistical friction. The research maps how these barriers emerge across four specific domains: governance structures, institutional design, community norms, and legal frameworks.

Logistical Hurdles and Administrative Exclusion

For many Canadians, the physical act of getting vaccinated is hindered by rigid institutional processes and staffing gaps. The study highlights that clinical hours often conflict with the demands of low-income workers or single parents, such as a mother working a traditional nine-to-five shift who cannot reach a clinic operating on the same schedule. Furthermore, administrative requirements like mandatory identification and specific eligibility criteria create significant roadblocks for newcomers, undocumented individuals, and those without stable housing. These structural failings often force marginalized people to seek information from unverified online sources when they lack access to a family doctor or a translator.

The Impact of Historical Mistrust and Lack of Transparency

Mistrust in the healthcare system is frequently rooted in deep-seated historical discrimination, particularly among Indigenous peoples, refugees, and racialized communities. The SFU study found that top-down decision-making and inconsistent public health messaging only compound this lack of confidence. When marginalized groups are excluded from the decision-making process, they often view vaccination strategies as imposition rather than support. Tiwana notes that the absence of race-based data further limits the ability of health authorities to take targeted action, leaving gaps that are currently filled by community organizations with little to no formal funding.