The Government of Alberta has announced a new compensation model for nurse practitioners who set up primary care clinics. (Photo: Antonioguillem | Dreamstime.com)

By David Opinko

New pay model for Alberta nurses who start primary care clinics

Apr 25, 2024 | 11:14 AM

The Government of Alberta hopes a new compensation model will lead to more people being able to access primary care.

They have released more details about the Nurse Practitioner Primary Care Program, which allows nurse practitioners to set up their own clinics.

Premier Danielle Smith says the program will allow them to either run clinics on their own or alongside existing primary care clinics.

“Nurse practitioners are a welcome and integral part of the solution to improving access to primary health care services. Finalizing this funding model is an exciting step forward in our journey to refocus health care in Alberta, and I’m looking forward to this expansion of health care services,” says Smith.

Eligible nurse practitioners would receive approximately 80 per cent of the money given to family physicians. The exact amount will depend on the number of patients they see and the number of patient care hours provided.

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In a media release from the government, they say the program is designed to incentivize nurse practitioners to see more patients.

Health Minister Adriana LaGrange believes it will go a long way in serving the more than 700,000 Albertans who are not currently attached to a primary health care provider.

“This program is exciting news for Albertans. It not only increases health care capacity in communities across the province but also provides more Albertans with access to a regular primary care provider and will help take pressure off the rest of the health system,” says LaGrange.

Nurse practitioners who are just entering practice can apply for a one-time mentorship grant in partnership with clinics, communities, and Primary Care Networks. Each mentor can receive $10,000 during the nurse’s first 18 months to ensure a successful transition to independent practice.

More details on the Nurse Practitioner Primary Care Program are on the Government of Alberta’s website.