In a significant move aimed at addressing the challenges within Alberta’s healthcare system, Premier Danielle Smith announced a $200-million investment over two years to enhance access to family physicians in the province. The funding will be allocated through the newly established Canada-Alberta Health Funding Agreement, unveiled earlier today in Calgary.
Premier Smith highlighted the existing challenges, including bureaucratic obstacles and capacity limitations leading to delays in routine and life-saving care. Premier Smith expressed a commitment to transform Alberta’s healthcare delivery system, focusing on Primary Care, acute care, continuing care, mental health, and addiction.
Acknowledging the urgency for immediate solutions, she identified the struggles faced by family physicians, particularly with high patient loads, administrative costs, and challenges in recruiting new graduates. Recognizing the vital role of family physicians as the bedrock of the primary care system, she stressed the importance of reducing paperwork and providing support.
In collaboration with the Alberta Medical Association, Premier Smith announced discussions on a new family physician payment model to facilitate comprehensive care. While recognizing the time needed for these changes, she assured that relief is on the way for family physicians. To bridge the gap, the Alberta government will provide $200 million in stabilization funding through the Canada-Alberta Health Funding Agreement. These programs and initiatives are expected to roll out in the new year and will be informed by recommendations from a task force examining comprehensive care in the province.
Minister Adriana LaGrange expanded on the approach, emphasizing the government’s commitment to stabilizing, strengthening, and improving the primary healthcare system. She outlined the stabilization funding, addressing key issues like doctor retention, administrative burden, and inflationary costs. The minister underscored the importance of transitioning to a new comprehensive primary care model for family physicians.
Dr. Paul Parks, president of the Alberta Medical Association, commended the government’s significant investment as a down payment to support family and rural general physicians across the province. He outlined the three-phase approach, starting with immediate funding for stabilization, followed by further stabilization to support long-term comprehensive care, and ultimately implementing a physician comprehensive care model.
In response to media inquiries, Premier Smith addressed questions about the province’s immunization campaign, emphasizing the need for a private medical decision regarding vaccination. Minister LaGrange further clarified the alignment of communication with the current endemic state, encompassing various respiratory viruses.
The news conference concluded with Premier Smith reaffirming the government’s commitment to ongoing healthcare reforms, ensuring tangible outcomes that meet the expectations of Albertans.