Dear Members,
Positive outcome on WCB agreement
Voting on the tentative Alberta Medical Association–Workers’ Compensation Board (WCB) agreement closed Thursday, November 6. The vote opened October 14, and we are pleased to share that the proposed five-year agreement has been ratified with strong support: 94% of voting physicians were in favour.
The AMA Board provided oversight throughout the process and fully endorses the agreement. It appropriately recognizes the unique nature of WCB-related work and reflects the shared commitment of both parties to support care for WCB patients.
This agreement represents the collaborative efforts of AMA and WCB representatives on the Negotiating Committee, who worked together to find common ground and advance shared priorities. It aligns payments with incentives that promote the quality and timely care we all strive to deliver. It formalizes the relationship between the WCB and AMA while recognizing the unique requirements of caring for this patient population.
Next steps
Both parties will now sign the agreement and begin implementation work — individually and jointly — to ensure the negotiated changes are effective and beneficial for physicians and patients.
Thank you to everyone who participated in the vote and contributed to this important outcome.
Get involved!
The AMA/WCB Advisory Committee is currently seeking three new members and a chair. This committee is responsible for the ongoing management and implementation of the AMA/WCB Physician Services Compensation Agreement, including:
- Discussing and resolving issues that arise in the implementation of the agreement.
- Working with WCB to address physician concerns and challenges in reporting, billing, payment, information access and other matters.
- (NEW! in this agreement) Addressing physician access to information and other forms and IT issues, including those relating to RRNP payments.
The Advisory Committee meets at least quarterly and may create subcommittees to address specific projects. If you’re interested, please check out the details and apply: AMA/WCB Advisory Committee Positions (member login required). If you have questions about the committee, please reach out to Norma Shipley
([email protected]).
Regards,
Brian Wirzba, MD, FRCPC
President, Alberta Medical Association