Health Minister Adriana LaGrange has introduced legislation to restructure the health care system. (Photo: Government of Alberta)

By David Opinko

Alberta introduces legislation to break up AHS, establish new health agencies

May 14, 2024 | 3:15 PM

The Government of Alberta has taken a major step in its efforts to restructure the health care system.

The Health Statutes Amendment Act has been introduced into the legislature, which, if passed, would create an integrated system with four sector-based provincial health agencies.

Health Minister Adriana LaGrange says they would focus on primary care, acute care, continuing care, and mental health and addictions.

Recovery Alberta, which would handle mental health and addictions services, is set to launch this summer, while the other three should be established in the fall.

“We are taking another step toward improving health care by updating legislation and enabling the governance and oversight required to refocus the health system,” says LaGrange. “The critical improvements to transparency and accountability will help support the successful refocusing of the health care system to one that is responsive, effective and reflects the needs and priorities of Albertans today and for future generations.”

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The Minister of Health would be responsible for overseeing the strategic direction of the entire health care system.

Each of the four agencies would also have their own sector minister. As one example, Minister of Mental Health and Addictions Dan Williams will serve as the sector minister for Recovery Alberta.

He says enhanced oversight will help the government to better direct resources to the front lines, improve patient care, and support health professionals.

“Mental health and addiction have been growing issues within our society and need to be prioritized within our health care system. Amid an addiction crisis, a refocused health system will allow for mental health and addiction services to get the attention, oversight and focus they need,” says Williams. “Recovery Alberta would allow for improved mental health and addiction care across the province as an important part of an integrated health system.”

When the transition happens this fall, Alberta Health Services will focus on providing acute care services.

READ MORE: How will Alberta’s new health care system work?