Alberta Launches New Agency to Improve Primary Care Access

Alberta is revamping its healthcare system with the creation of a new agency focused on primary care.

On Tuesday, Health Minister Adriana LaGrange announced the creation of Primary Care Alberta, a spin-off from Alberta Health Services. The new healthcare body will become operational on November 1. The agency will oversee primary health services across Alberta, aiming to enhance access to family doctors and nurse practitioners, as well as introduce new care models, and expand after-hours care through virtual services.

Incoming CEO Dr. Kim Simmonds emphasized the importance of fostering strong relationships between patients and their healthcare providers. “This is a critical step in ensuring that Albertans have the access and support they need to lead healthy lives,” Simmonds said.

The creation of Primary Care Alberta is part of a broader restructuring of Alberta’s healthcare system, which sees Alberta Health Services being broken up into four specialized agencies: primary care, acute care, continuing care, and mental health and addictions. This reorganization hopes to improve efficiency and focus on specific healthcare needs.