Minister’s announcement about laboratory services

August 14, 2015

Dear Member:

As you have likely heard in media reports, Minister of Health Sarah Hoffman announced yesterday that she has instructed Alberta Health Services to halt a request for proposal process for laboratory services in Edmonton and Northern Alberta.

The minister has done what she believes is in the best interests of the health care system. It must have been a difficult decision to make and we respect the choice she has made.

In the next several months, there are important steps to be taken. These include maintaining continuity of quality laboratory services through the transition to ensure appropriate access for patients. There will also be a review to determine the best approach to service delivery in the long term. Then we will require an implementation plan for needs identified by the review.

The major concern for all of us is that Albertans have access to high-quality laboratory services. The medical profession is willing and well-positioned to provide input for the work that lies ahead. The Alberta Medical Association has offered our assistance in an advisory capacity. The minister has expressed her appreciation for our offer and we will be arranging to get together as soon as possible.

I will keep you posted as I have news to report. I always appreciate any comments you care to make. Email president@albertadoctors.org or leave a comment below.

Regards,

Richard G.R. Johnston, MD, MBA, FRCPC
President