AMA statement on Health Minister mandate letters

The Alberta Medical Association acknowledges the release of the mandate letters for Alberta’s four newly established health ministries. While we appreciate the government’s focus on improving access, innovation and accountability, we are concerned that the mandate letters do not adequately address the need for integration across ministries.
 
We are at risk of creating silos at a time when Albertans need a cohesive, patient-centred health system. Notably absent from the mandate letters is any meaningful reference to the patient journey through our health care system. There is no mention of how individuals will move through primary care, hospital services, mental health supports and continuing care. Without a clear strategy for coordination, patients may experience fragmented care, delayed transitions and inconsistent outcomes.
 
This concern is especially relevant given the growing pressures on Alberta’s emergency departments and the rise in Alternate Level of Care (ALC) days, which reflect broader system challenges—not just in acute care, but in housing, home care and community supports.
 
The AMA is committed to working with government to ensure connectivity, integration and collaboration across all four health ministries. We believe that only through unified planning and coordinated action can Alberta build a health system that truly puts patients first.