Decisions about our health system move quickly, and physicians must be part of the conversations that shape what comes next. Now more than ever, we encourage physician members across specialties to join an AMA committee. Applications close May 29.
Read the May 22 President’s Letter
Over the past several months, many of you have raised important questions about what expanded dual practice could mean for patients, physicians and the future of our publicly funded health care system — especially since Bill 11 (Health Statutes Amendment Act, 2025 (No. 2)) was introduced.
An update on self-referred private pay diagnostic imaging and screening laboratory services and to encourage members to attend an upcoming information session on youth proxy access through MyHealth Records.
Dr. Brian Wirzba provides updates on three important areas of work underway at the AMA.
Reminder to complete the current AMA Pulse Survey regarding Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID) and the proposed Bill 18, the Last Resort Termination of Life Act.
Below you will find previous issues of The President's Letter. For older issues no longer on the website, contact us.
Yesterday, government released a new public health order stipulating that medical exemptions for mask use will be allowed for a list of “verified health conditions.” An exemption letter will be required from a physician, nurse practitioner or psychologist.
The new public health restrictions put in place this week have been welcomed by the broader medical community. Like you, I have been watching the rising COVID-19 case numbers in Alberta with increasing concern.
Canadians have fervently expressed their thanks to all health professionals during this pandemic year. As physicians, we have been quick to recognize all team members who are working alongside of us. From our allied health colleagues to our underrecognized front line staff who keep our facilities running smoothly, we could not do our job without them.
The April meeting of the Board of Directors took place last week. This was our first opportunity to gather since the ratification vote. We spent two days discussing the challenges facing our members, patients and health care system, and how we can best address them.
I’ve written a few times about the work to involve community-based physicians in delivery of the COVID-19 vaccine. We have moved forward in partnership with Alberta Health, working closely with the Primary Care Networks. The Alberta Medical Association created the online Expression of Interest portal, through which physicians could express interest in participation.
I have appreciated all the emails and conversations since my April 1 President’s Letter. Many of you have shared your thoughts and hopes for the future. Your feedback demonstrates the strong engagement of members in the voting process and a thorough understanding of what was at stake.
As I am sure many of you have heard, Alberta Health announced that Phase 2C of the COVID-19 vaccine roll out begins today. They have given priority to health care providers delivering direct patient care. I have heard from many members since the first vaccines were approved late last year, and we have all been anxiously awaiting this announcement.
To avoid days of silence at an important time, I wanted to write again before the weekend, which I hope will be a short break for many. I appreciate all the members who have written since the ratification vote to offer thoughtful comments on next steps for the AMA.
The membership has voted No to the Tentative Agreement Package between the Alberta Medical Association and the provincial government. 53% of members who voted, voted no and 47% voted yes. The overall vote turnout was 59% – which is considerably higher than for recent agreements.
As I announced in my February 26 President’s Letter, a Tentative Agreement Package has been reached with the provincial government. A special meeting of the Representative Forum convened virtually today. There was an excellent exchange of information and input. At the conclusion, there was overwhelming support to move forward with ratification. As a result, the Board has decided to proceed with a vote.