Alberta's New Dual Practice Health Care Model: What It Means for You

The Alberta government recently announced a significant shift in how health care may be delivered across the province. Known as the "Dual Practice Model," this new approach would allow physicians and surgical teams to work in both the public health system and private settings concurrently. This development could reshape the landscape of elective medical procedures in Alberta and directly affect how residents access timely care.

This model is designed to address some of the long-standing challenges in our health system, most notably, surgical wait times. Under the current public system, many Albertans have faced extended delays for procedures such as hip replacements, cataract surgeries, orthopedic repairs, and other non-urgent but life-altering interventions. These wait times can have a serious impact on quality of life, daily mobility, and overall well-being. The new model seeks to unlock more surgical capacity by allowing surgeons to offer additional procedures privately, outside regular public hours and funding limitations.

Watch the Alberta Government’s Announcement

What Does This Mean for Alberta Residents?

In theory, this model creates more options and greater system efficiency. For those relying solely on the public system, the hope is that overall wait times will shrink as some patients choose to have their procedures done privately, easing the load on the public queue. This redistribution could lead to quicker treatment timelines and better use of Alberta's surgical talent, many of whom are currently underutilized due to budget caps on operating room hours.

For residents who are open to private care options, this change offers the possibility of accessing treatment much sooner. Surgeons who meet their minimum public service requirements will be permitted to offer private surgeries during evenings, weekends, or at accredited private clinics. These procedures would be paid for either out-of-pocket or through private medical insurance.

The Dual Practice Model brings Alberta more in line with many European health systems, where public and private health care options coexist. Importantly, Alberta Health Services has confirmed that no one will be forced to pay for medically necessary treatment under the public system. The new model is about expanding choice, not replacing universal care.

The Role of Global Medical Care Insurance

This is where Global Medical Care insurance becomes particularly relevant. Designed to provide coverage for medical services outside the standard provincial plan, these policies often include benefits such as:

• Coverage for elective surgeries in private facilities
• Access to international hospitals and specialists
• Second medical opinions from world-class physicians
• Travel assistance and medical concierge support

For Albertans exploring their new options under the Dual Practice Model, Global Medical Care insurance can be a practical tool. Rather than waiting six months or longer for a procedure through the public system, policyholders may be able to schedule treatment privately within weeks. This is especially valuable for individuals managing chronic pain, mobility issues, or work-related functional limitations.

Additionally, these insurance plans are not limited to care in Alberta. They often include access to leading hospitals across Canada, the U.S., and globally. For higher-income individuals or business owners, this flexibility can be essential to managing personal and professional responsibilities.

It is also worth noting that many policies include Second Medical Opinion services, which give clients the chance to have their diagnosis and treatment plan reviewed by renowned specialists from major medical institutions. This can be reassuring when faced with a major health decision and ensures you are proceeding with confidence and clarity.

Is It Right for You?

Choosing to purchase Global Medical Care coverage is a personal decision, influenced by your health priorities, budget, and risk tolerance. However, for Albertans who place a premium on choice, convenience, and timely care, the evolving dual practice environment makes such coverage more practical than ever before.

These insurance solutions are especially relevant for:

• Professionals who cannot afford extended medical leave
• Seniors with mobility or vision concerns
• Families wanting prompt access to pediatric or orthopedic care
• Individuals seeking alternatives to travel abroad for surgery

Next Steps

At Garrett Agencies, we work with multiple providers to help you find the right plan that suits your needs and budget. Whether you're simply looking to reduce wait times, or you want the security of international access and second opinions, we are here to help guide you through the options.

Connect with us today to learn more about your coverage choices and how you can take greater control of your health journey in Alberta's evolving health care environment.