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Stipend Transition: Annualized cARP

Learn how to join and implement the annualized cARP model, a compensation option for physician groups who deliver pre-determined clinical services to a target population at defined locations.

Contact AMA's Support Team

Stipends end on October 1, 2026. For a limited time, stipend-funded specialist physicians can enter Alberta's annualized clinical Alternative Relationship Plan (cARP) through an expedited process, bypassing the standard expression of interest (EOI) and application.

Watch the 30-minute information session recording to get started.

cARP 101 & Stipend Transition Info Session Recording

How to Join

  1. Step 1: Start the Conversation

    Stipend-funded physician groups should come together and reflect on the scope of their current program:

    • ​Services provided ​
    • Patient population​
    • Service hours ​
    • Regularly scheduled after-hours coverage​
    • Physician specialties 

    Physicians are not required to join a cARP. The model is voluntary, with fee-for-service (FFS) remaining as a transition option for some or all physicians in the program. 

  2. Step 2: Understand the Model

    Explore AMA's resource library to understand the model components and requirements for participating physicians. Key resources include:

  3. Step 3: Contact the AMA & PPHS

    Stipend-funded physicians can access the expedited process by contacting Primary and Preventative Health Services (PPHS) at [email protected].

    The deadline to express interest is August 17, 2026; however, physicians are encouraged to reach out as early as possible. 

    Before contacting PPHS, reach out to AMA's Stipend Transition Support Team. With tailored program support, AMA will prepare physicians for PPHS discussions, help mitigate common issues during the development process and ensure the group is ready for implementation. 

    Request Support via Intake Form

    Explore best practice tips for documentation management and physician group communication. 

  4. Step 4: COP MO Development

    The annualized model is governed by two Ministerial Orders, including the Conditions of Payment MO (COP MO), which outlines specific terms and is unique to each program.

    PPHS will provide physicians with a draft COP MO. Once signed, terms are final and legally binding. AMA resources can help physicians develop or review their COP MO before finalization - member login required.

    Stipend Transition Planning Template COP MO Review Guide - Annualized

    Sample COP MO

  5. Step 5: Pre-Implementation

    After the COP MO is signed, physicians should prepare for model operations. AMA's Implementation Guide includes an adoption checklist and offers tips and guidance on:

    • Developing program governance 
    • Program banking and reconciliation
    • Internal fund distribution and overhead 
    • Obtaining a Business Arrangement (BA) and Non-patient-specific ULI
    • Service Event Reporting (SER)
    • Hours Reporting - transition from FTE reporting in progress
    • Monthly and annual performance reporting
    Annualized cARP Implementation Guide

    Additional tools are available in our resource library.

  6. Step 6: Post-Implementation

    The AMA's Transition Support Team is available to members who require assistance with day-to-day operations and program management.

    Request Support via Intake Form

    After implementation, cARP physicians can:

    • Submit an expansion request or service change. See section 4.0 of the Implementation Guide
    • Exit the annualized CARP with 30 days' notice and bring additional physicians into the program. See required forms