Access to rural veterinarians and animal health technicians is vital to the safety, sustainability, and success of agricultural producers across the country.
The Government of Canada has implemented the Canada Student Loan Forgiveness Program to attract and retain essential professionals in rural and underserviced areas. Examples of eligible occupations include family doctors, nurses, teachers, social workers, and pharmacists. However, veterinarians and animal health technicians are not included in the list of occupations eligible for student loan forgiveness.
The exclusion of veterinarians and animal health technicians from this federal incentive is a missed opportunity to support a critical service in rural communities that has a direct impact on the economic stability of the country.
To support further advocacy for the inclusion of veterinarians and animal health technicians into the Canada Student Loan Forgiveness Program, The Municipal District of Wainwright has created a survey to show the economic value of veterinary access in Alberta. The survey is intended to gather input from Albertan farmers and ranchers about the importance of veterinary services to agricultural productivity, animal health, and business viability. RMA is encouraging all members to share this survey with their agricultural sector to ensure maximum participation. All responses are anonymous and the deadline to complete the survey is June 30, 2026.
In Spring 2026, RMA members passed Resolution 3-26S, which calls for amendments to the Canada Student Loan Forgiveness Program to include veterinarians and animal health technicians who commit to practicing in rural, remote, or underserved communities. To support this resolution and other advocacy priorities, RMA is working with the Alberta Veterinary Medical Association to better understand recruitment and retention challenges of animal health professionals in rural areas.
For more information, contact RMA’s Policy and Advocacy Team at advocacy@rmalberta.com or 825.319.2383.