Nearly 400 physicians have expressed interest in participating in Alberta’s proposed dual practice healthcare system, according to the provincial government. The initiative would allow eligible doctors to work in both the publicly funded healthcare system and privately operated surgical facilities under a regulated framework.
The Alberta government says the new model is designed to reduce long wait times for patients, improve access to healthcare services and make the province more attractive for recruiting and retaining physicians. Officials believe allowing doctors to practice in both sectors will help expand surgical capacity without compromising public healthcare.
Under the proposed system, physicians would be permitted to provide services in private facilities while continuing to work within Alberta’s publicly funded health system. The government maintains that participation will be subject to strict conditions to ensure public healthcare services remain protected.
Health Minister Adriana LaGrange said the strong response from physicians reflects growing interest in innovative approaches to addressing healthcare challenges. The government is currently reviewing applications and working with healthcare partners to implement the framework.
However, the proposal has drawn criticism from opposition parties and some healthcare advocacy groups, who argue that the dual practice model could divert physicians away from the public system and create inequalities in access to care. They warn that the policy could lead to a two-tier healthcare system if not properly regulated.
The Alberta government has rejected those concerns, insisting that safeguards will be in place to ensure the public healthcare system remains the priority. Officials say the initiative is aimed at increasing patient access to surgeries and specialist care while strengthening the province’s overall healthcare workforce.
The dual practice proposal forms part of Alberta’s broader healthcare reform strategy, which seeks to improve service delivery, reduce surgical backlogs and provide patients with faster access to medical treatment across the province.