Report provides recommendations intended to provide long-term sustainability in the healthcare system
Alberta Health released a performance review report of Alberta Health Services (AHS) conducted by Ernst & Young. The report contains 57 recommendations and 72 savings opportunities. The report has been delivered to AHS, who will have 100 days to develop an implementation plan. As a result, the details of which recommendations will be implemented, and how, are not yet available. There will be more clarity on the impacts of the recommendations when AHS delivers their implementation plan. The forthcoming 2020 provincial budget will also likely provide more information on the future of rural healthcare.
The report does identify, but not specifically name, five hospitals in Alberta that are recommended for closure. However, RMA appreciates Minister Shandro’s commitment to reject this recommendation and not close any hospitals. Additionally, RMA is pleased that AHS has stated they will maintain air ambulance bases, despite the report’s recommendation to consolidate some of them. RMA will continue to monitor for updates regarding:
- Details of the reconfiguration of rural hospitals and how this will affect the services they provide
- Changes to the availability of obstetrics care
- The use of virtual health initiatives, which will require reliable highspeed internet
RMA recognizes that the presence of hospitals, primary care facilities, and emergency services in rural communities provides not only health benefits, but broader community benefits. These include attracting new residents, stimulating economic growth, and providing opportunities to educate the new generation of health professionals. RMA will continue to advocate for the importance of rural healthcare as the results of this review are implemented.
To view the full report or summary report, click here.
For enquiries, please contact:
Warren Noga
Policy Advisor
warren@RMAlberta.com
Tasha Blumenthal
Director of External Relations & Advocacy
tasha@RMAlberta.com