Alberta is gearing up for legislative adjustments that would enable individuals to privately pay for diagnostic and preventive tests like MRIs, CT scans, and full-body scans without a doctor’s prescription. Although some private testing services are currently accessible in Alberta, the government acknowledges the limited options. The government assures that in cases where a privately funded test uncovers a significant or critical condition, the individual will be reimbursed to ensure no one bears the cost of essential tests.
The rationale behind this initiative, as articulated by Adriana LaGrange, Alberta’s minister of primary and preventative health services, is to modernize the healthcare system by attracting more investments and healthcare professionals to bolster preventive healthcare services across the province. Proponents believe that this move will enhance test availability, alleviate pressure on public resources, and lead to better early detection and health outcomes.
However, critics warn that this plan might disadvantage some Albertans and further strain the public healthcare system. Dr. Paul Parks, president-elect of the Alberta Medical Association’s emergency medicine section, expressed concerns that the expansion of private pay access to MRIs could potentially undermine the public healthcare system and create a divide where those with financial means receive quicker and superior care.
In addressing concerns about the availability of technicians, Alberta Premier Danielle Smith clarified that the issue lies not in a shortage of technicians but in the fact that Alberta only funds a limited number of procedures. Smith emphasized the need to utilize the full capacity of healthcare services and enable individuals to undergo preventive and diagnostic tests, with reimbursement and prompt treatment in case of findings.
While some like Renaud Brossard, vice-president of communications at the Montreal Economic Institute, view the idea positively, anticipating reduced waiting times in both public and private healthcare sectors, others like Dr. Paul Parks express reservations. Parks believes that the real bottleneck in Alberta’s diagnostic system is not the lack of machines but the scarcity of skilled technologists. He foresees that the expansion of private pay imaging could lead to the migration of technicians to more lucrative private sector roles, leaving public hospitals understaffed during critical hours.
Despite differing opinions, the government remains steadfast in its commitment to expanding preventive screening options as a means to enhance early detection and improve health outcomes. The province plans to engage stakeholders for consultations on the proposed changes, with legislative and policy amendments anticipated in the first half of 2026.
