A new bill in Alberta is proposing a dual practice system for physicians, allowing them to work in both private and public health-care settings. However, family doctors are currently excluded from participating in the private system under the proposed legislation.
The Health Statutes Amendment Act, known as Bill 11, was introduced in the Alberta legislature with the aim of implementing this dual practice system. Premier Danielle Smith had previously announced the dual model, stating that the legislation does not violate the Canada Health Act.
While emergency medicine and surgeries for life-threatening conditions would remain within the public system, the bill seeks to attract and retain physicians by offering the option to engage in private practice alongside their public responsibilities.
The government is considering various measures to regulate the public-private system, such as requiring surgeons to perform a set number of publicly funded surgeries before entering the private system. Additionally, physicians practicing in both systems will need to maintain separate records to ensure accurate billing.
The Alberta Medical Association expressed concerns about the potential impact of the bill on the public health system. Dr. Brian Wirzba emphasized the importance of consulting with healthcare providers and stakeholders to address any destabilizing effects on public access to care.
Critics, including advocacy group Friends of Medicare, fear that the proposed legislation could lead to a two-tiered healthcare system, favoring those who can afford private care. They argue that the government should prioritize strategies to reduce surgical wait times and develop a comprehensive healthcare workforce plan.
Overall, the bill aims to offer a recruitment incentive for physicians while maintaining quality and accessibility in the public healthcare system. However, stakeholders are urging thorough consultation and planning to address potential challenges and uphold the integrity of the public health system.