Local politicians approve of new direction for Alberta healthcare

Two Peace Country politicians are speaking in favour of the province’s plan to create four new organizations as part of the healthcare system. Premier Danielle Smith announced the changes Wednesday, including a new Alberta Health Services board.

The new board will be led by Dr. Lyle Oberg and will reportedly be primarily focused on acute care services. This will include hospitals, cancer care centres, clinical operations, surgeries, and emergency medical services. 

The four new organizations will focus separately on primary care, continuing care, acute care and mental health and addictions. 

Despite the additional organizational bodies, Smith says Alberta healthcare will still be a single system. She says there will be a focus on protecting jobs throughout the transition and to expect “streamlining in the management layers.” 

City of Grande Prairie Mayor Jackie Clayton says she has advocated for a change to the healthcare system, as it needs to be made sustainable for not only the current needs in the province, but future needs as well.

“I am encouraged by the elements within the plan, and I am extremely optimistic it will produce the outcomes we are looking for and that our residents need.”

Peace River MLA and Minister of Mental Health and Addiction Dan Williams says when it comes to having one group focused on mental health and addiction supports, it should help create more of these services for Albertans to access.

“The direction we are taking Alberta is caring for Albertans and supporting them in their pursuit of recovery.”

No dollar value was put on the transition and Health Minister Adriana LaGrange says it will take time for the changes to have an impact on Albertans seeking care. The new organizations are set to be in place by fall of 2024.