We recognize that the public health system in Alberta and all of Canada is under stress.

Part of this stress is that Canadians on surgical waiting lists experience a reduced quality of life. By enduring difficulties such as pain, reduced mobility, income loss, and anxiety about their health, patients are affected by more than just the immediate illness. The goal of the health system is to treat patients as quickly as reasonable and return them to a health lifestyle.

Reports and studies over the last 15 years have recognized access to care is a growing and significant issue.  Significant change required to make the public system healthy again. While we wait for meaningful action at the federal level on the Kirby and Romanow reports, Alberta is fortunate to have the concrete recommendations from the Right Honorable Don Mazankowski. The report reinforces the steps the Government of Alberta has already taken to create a coordinated and controlled system of private providers working within the public system.

While HRC is pleased with the balanced approach and progress to date more can and should be done. Private providers such as the Health Resource Centre offer the potential to improve access to health care for all Canadians by reducing the pressure on the public system and facilities. Allowing for patients to receive their needed care at HRC, surgical capacity for the Calgary Health Region and surgical services for the public  at large is improved.