Key Messages
Key messages for physicians and Albertans about how the government funding changes are patient care in Alberta.
What are the main messages for physicians?
(Download and print these messages)
Physicians and government should be working together
- Physicians and government should be working together to deliver quality, timely, affordable care for all Albertans.
- Physicians understand health care and could provide valuable, relevant insight into how to protect the health of Albertans.
- Health care should not be political.
We need stability to be able to plan for the future. An agreement between doctors and government is essential to creating that stability.
- Without certainty and stability, retention and recruitment are impossible.
- Reduced access and increased wait times are the inevitable result of the lack of certainty.
Physicians are not looking for a pay increase
- In fact, we’ve tabled proposals that would see us earn less over the next three years.
- We are dedicated stewards of the health care system and are constantly exploring system savings and improvements. We understand the economic challenges this province is facing and want to be part of creating sustainable, safe solutions.
What are the main messages for conversations with patients and the public?
(Download and print these messages)
All Albertans should have a voice in what our health care system looks like
- Decisions can’t be made arbitrarily and in isolation. Health care providers and Albertans need to be involved.
- Government is making changes voters never agreed to and were never asked about.
Albertans are already stressed because of COVID and economic uncertainty. Accessing health care shouldn’t be stressful too.
- Albertans deserve answers and certainty on what their health care will look like for them and their families.
- People don’t realize what’s at risk and may not realize it until it’s too late. If patients have questions or concerns, doctors are here to help.
It’s not about wanting more money
- It’s about wanting to protect the stability of our publicly funded health care system and the health of Albertans.
- We’ve offered to reduce what we get paid. Government ignored us.
Additional resources: (secure)
Additional resources are available for AMA members, member login is required.
How can I get involved?
For physicians, join the AMA’s physician campaign
The AMA recently launched a campaign enabling physicians to encourage their MLA and Health Minister Tyler Shandro to put Patients First® and reach an agreement with physicians. Please visit our campaign page to have your voice heard.
For the public, join the AMA’s public campaign
For physicians, the health of Albertans is our number one priority. Alberta is known around the world for timely access to quality, affordable health care. Due to decisions made by the Government of Alberta, that reputation could be at risk. E-mail your MLA and tell them now is not the time to mess with Alberta's health care system. Help them put Patients First® in this crisis.
