Primary Care Physician Compensation Model (PCPCM)

Learn how to apply and implement the PCPCM, a compensation option for family physicians and rural generalists who deliver comprehensive, life-long care to a defined panel of patients.

PCPCM FAQ

The Primary Care Physician Compensation Model (PCPCM), jointly developed by AMA's primary care physician leaders and Primary and Preventative Health Services, is a compensation option for family physicians and rural generalists.

Latest Tools and Resources

Understanding & Applying for the PCPCM

  1. STEP 1 | Essentials Guide

    Co-created with Primary and Preventative Health Services, the AMA has developed a guide for physicians to better understand the PCPCM. Explore key features, payment overview and physician prerequisites.

    PCPCM Essentials Guide
  2. STEP 2 | Compensation Overview

    Alberta physicians have options to align compensation with their unique practice styles, community needs and patient care goals. Explore how the PCPCM compares to existing compensation models.

    Model Comparison Table
  3. STEP 3 | Operations Manual

    Co-created by AMA and Primary and Preventative Health Services, the PCPCM Operations Manual is a comprehensive guide for physicians and teams to understand eligibility, billing rules, enrolment steps and more. Revised sections are marked in red as new information is added.

    PCPCM Operations Manual
  4. STEP 4 | FAQ

    AMA has compiled answers to physicians' most frequently asked questions. Check back regularly as new model details are shared and additional physician inquiries are addressed.

    PCPCM FAQ
  5. STEP 5 | Financial Estimates

    Utilize AMA's PCPCM Financial Calculator, a helpful tool for considering the model and estimating compensation. This tool contains individual physician data from Primary and Preventative Health Services and is available to AMA member physicians and members of AMA's Clinic Managers Network.

    See our FAQ for more information on billing for time and encounters and complexity-adjusted panel payments.

    PCPCM Financial Calculator
  6. STEP 6 | Application

    Physicians interested in the PCPCM must first complete the Expression of Interest (EOI) form on their AMA member dashboard. The EOI is open to physicians who meet the eligibility criteria, as determined by their Primary and Preventative Health Services data. 

    After submitting the EOI, eligible physicians will receive their personalized PCPCM Application Form and a copy of the Ministerial Order (member login required). Follow the instructions, complete the form and submit it to Primary and Preventative Health Services.

    Interested physicians can apply anytime! For information on monthly deadlines and corresponding start dates, see the March 24 Primary and Preventative Health Services Bulletin.

    PCPCM Application & Troubleshooting
  7. Step 7 | Stay Informed

    PCPCM In Progress Newsletter

    Updates from the AMA on new resources, model updates and support. Sign up