You have the right to ask your surgeon's office where you are in the queue.
Alberta Wait Times website: Visit albertawaitimes.ca to check current estimated wait times for surgeries, specialist consultations, and diagnostic imaging.
What the numbers mean: Wait times are shown in weeks and represent the time from when the referral is received to when the procedure or consultation happens. They're typically shown as a median (50th percentile) — meaning half of patients wait longer than the number shown.
Benchmarks: Alberta publishes benchmarks (target wait times) for many procedures. These are based on clinical guidelines for what's medically appropriate. If your wait exceeds the benchmark, you have grounds to ask about alternatives.
Important caveat: Posted wait times are averages across a zone or province. Your individual wait depends on urgency, surgeon availability, and facility capacity.
1. Ask about the cancellation list. Say to the surgeon's office: "Can I be put on the cancellation list? I'm available on short notice." If another patient cancels, you may get an earlier slot.
2. Ask about other surgeons. Say to your referring doctor: "Are there other surgeons who do this procedure with shorter wait times? I'm open to being referred elsewhere." You have the right to choose your specialist.
3. Ask about other facilities. Some procedures are available at chartered surgical facilities (private facilities funded by the public system) with shorter waits. Ask: "Is this procedure available through the Alberta Surgical Initiative at a different site?"
4. Ask about out-of-zone options. If you're in Edmonton, a Calgary surgeon might have a shorter wait (or vice versa). This involves travel but can save months.
5. Escalate if needed. If your wait has exceeded the benchmark significantly and you feel your health is at risk, ask your family doctor to advocate for prioritization. You can also contact the Health Advocate's Office: 780-422-1812 (toll-free 310-0000 then the number).
These are general estimates and change frequently. Check albertawaitimes.ca for current data.
| Service | Typical Wait | Benchmark |
|---|---|---|
| Hip replacement | Varies by zone | 182 days |
| Knee replacement | Varies by zone | 182 days |
| Cataract surgery | Varies by zone | 112 days |
| MRI scan | Varies widely | 28 days |
| CT scan | Usually faster than MRI | — |
Wait times are published publicly. You have the right to ask your surgeon's office where you are in the queue.
"I've checked albertawaitimes.ca and the wait for this is beyond the benchmark. Are there any other options?"
"Can you refer me to a different surgeon with a shorter wait time?"
"Is this procedure available at a chartered surgical facility?"
"My condition is getting worse while I wait. Can you document that and request prioritization?"
"Can I be added to the cancellation list for an earlier opening?"