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Alberta

• Doctor visits (family doctor, specialists, walk-in clinics)

• Hospital stays, surgeries, and emergency care

• Lab tests and diagnostic imaging ordered by a doctor

• Pharmacist assessments for minor conditions

• Maternity care (doctor, midwife, hospital delivery)

• Mental health services through the public system

• Eye exams for children (0-18) and seniors (65+) annually

• Eye exams for people with diabetes or certain conditions

• Dental care — Not covered (except hospital-based oral surgery)

• Prescription drugs — Not covered by AHCIP (see drug coverage programs below)

• Eye exams for adults 19-64 (unless you have diabetes or certain conditions)

• Physiotherapy, chiropractic, massage — Not covered (private insurance or out-of-pocket)

• Cosmetic procedures

• Glasses, contacts, hearing aids (see AADL for assistance)

• Sick notes and medical forms — Doctors can charge you for these

• Travel vaccines — Typically not covered

Alberta Blue Cross — Non-Group Coverage: Government-sponsored drug plans for seniors (65+), low-income Albertans, and people with specific conditions. Apply through Alberta Blue Cross.

Alberta Adult Health Benefit: Covers drugs, dental, optical, and ambulance for low-income adults. Call Alberta Supports: 1-877-644-9992.

Alberta Child Health Benefit: Same coverage for children of low-income families.

Rural Alberta relies on a different care model. Instead of large clinics, you may have:

🏥 Community health centres — Often staffed by nurse practitioners, family doctors, or rotating physicians. Call your local centre to ask about clinic hours and walk-in availability.

👩‍⚕️ Nurse practitioners — In many rural areas, NPs provide the majority of primary care. They can diagnose, prescribe medications, order tests, and make referrals — just like a doctor.

💊 Your pharmacist — In towns without a doctor, the pharmacist is often your first point of care. Alberta pharmacists with APA can prescribe for a wide range of conditions. See our Pharmacist Advantage guide.

How to find what's near you:

1. Call Health Link 811 — they have a database of every facility by location

2. Visit primarycarealberta.ca → "Find Healthcare" → filter by your town

3. Ask at your local hospital registration desk — they'll know what services are available locally

Virtual clinics are a game-changer for rural Albertans. You can see a doctor from home, no travel required, and all are covered by AHCIP.

📱 Telus Health MyCare — App-based video visits. Often same-day appointments.

📱 Maple — On-demand virtual walk-in via app or browser.

📱 Tiahealth — Virtual walk-in visits, often available within hours.

What they CAN do remotely: Write prescriptions (sent to your local pharmacy), provide specialist referrals, order lab requisitions, write sick notes, perform mental health assessments, renew ongoing medications.

What they CAN'T do remotely: Physical examinations, procedures, imaging, or anything requiring hands-on assessment. For those, they'll direct you to the nearest appropriate facility.

💡 Tip: If your internet connection is unreliable, all three services also offer phone-only visits. Select "phone call" when booking.

If you need to travel for specialist appointments, surgery, or treatment not available locally, financial help may be available:

🏥 Alberta Health Services Travel Assistance — If you're referred to a specialist or treatment centre more than 100 km from your home, you may qualify for travel and accommodation subsidies. Ask your referring doctor's office to submit a travel request.

💰 Non-Insured Health Benefits (NIHB) — First Nations and Inuit patients may be eligible for medical transportation coverage through NIHB. See our Indigenous Health guide.

🚐 Community volunteer driver programs — Many rural communities have volunteer driver networks for medical appointments. Call 211 to find programs in your area.

🏨 Hospital lodges — Edmonton and Calgary have subsidized hospital lodges (like the Cross Cancer Lodge or Lander Treatment Centre) for patients travelling for treatment. Ask your care team about booking.

💡 Keep all travel receipts — medical travel is tax-deductible in Canada when it exceeds a certain distance threshold.

When STARS is called: STARS (Shock Trauma Air Rescue Society) provides helicopter emergency medical services across Alberta. They're dispatched by 911 dispatchers for time-critical emergencies where the nearest hospital is too far or the patient needs a higher level of care than the local facility can provide.

You don't need to call STARS directly. Call 911 — the dispatcher will determine if STARS is needed based on the situation and distance.

What to expect in a rural emergency:

1. Call 911 — they'll dispatch the closest ambulance AND may send STARS simultaneously

2. Your local hospital ER may stabilize you and then arrange transfer to a larger centre

3. Transfer decisions are made by the emergency physician — you or your family can ask to speak with them about the plan

Know your local ER: Not all rural hospitals have 24/7 emergency departments. Some have limited hours. Know your local ER's hours before you need them — call the hospital or check their website.

Home care services help seniors live independently as long as possible. Services can include nursing, personal care (bathing, dressing), meal preparation, and housekeeping.

How to request a home care assessment:

1. Ask your family doctor or hospital discharge team to submit a referral

2. Or call Continuing Care Access directly through Health Link 811

3. A care coordinator will visit and assess the person's needs

4. Based on the assessment, a care plan is created — services can start within days for urgent cases

What's covered: Professional health services (nursing, therapy) are fully covered. Personal care and homemaking support may have co-payment fees based on income.

💡 If a senior is being discharged from hospital, insist on a home care assessment BEFORE discharge. You can say: "We need a home care referral before my [parent/spouse] goes home."

Alberta has a structured pathway as care needs increase:

How placement works: A continuing care assessment determines which level is appropriate. You cannot choose to skip levels. The system prioritizes matching care needs to the right setting.

How to apply: Contact Continuing Care Access through 811 or ask your doctor/hospital for a referral. A case manager will coordinate the assessment.

⚠️ Wait times for continuing care placement vary. In Edmonton and Calgary, waits for DSL or LTC can be several months. Ask your case manager about interim support while you wait.

In Alberta, the health care portion (nursing, medical care) in continuing care is covered. However, residents pay accommodation charges (room and board).

Accommodation fees are set by the Alberta government and vary by room type (ward, semi-private, private). These are updated periodically.

If you can't afford it: A financial assessment is available. Fees can be reduced based on income. No one is denied care due to inability to pay — this is law in Alberta.

What's NOT covered: Personal supplies (toiletries, clothing), cable TV, phone, and some incidental items.

To get current accommodation rates, call your local Continuing Care Access centre through 811 or visit the Alberta government website.

First Steps Navigator (Alzheimer Society): Call 1-866-950-5465 for free support navigating a dementia diagnosis. They provide information, emotional support, and help connecting to local resources.

Dementia Advice line through 811: Call Health Link and ask for "dementia advice." Specialized guidance for caregivers.

Day programs: Many communities offer adult day programs providing activities, socialization, and respite for caregivers. Ask your PCN or call 211.

Respite care: Short-term stays in a care facility so caregivers can rest. Arranged through Continuing Care Access.

Caregiver supports: The Caregivers Alberta helpline offers peer support, education, and navigation: 1-877-453-5088.

Advance care planning means making decisions about future health care before a crisis happens. It applies to everyone, not just seniors.

Personal Directive: A legal document naming someone to make health decisions for you if you can't. In Alberta, you can create one without a lawyer — forms are available free at alberta.ca. You need a witness (not the person you're naming).

Goals of Care Designation (GCD): A medical order filled out by your doctor that guides emergency responders and hospital staff on your wishes. It uses colour-coded levels (R, M, C) indicating how aggressively you want to be treated. Discuss this with your doctor.

Green Sleeve: A bright green folder placed on the fridge or bedside containing your GCD, personal directive, and emergency contacts. Paramedics are trained to look for it. Ask your doctor or PCN for a Green Sleeve kit.

Enduring Power of Attorney (EPA): A legal document naming someone to manage your financial and legal affairs if you become incapacitated. This is separate from a Personal Directive (which covers health decisions). Without an EPA, your family may need a court order to pay your bills, manage your property, or handle your finances — a slow and costly process. An EPA form can be completed with a lawyer or notary. The Government of Alberta offers guidance at alberta.ca under "Enduring power of attorney."

Will: While not a health document, having a valid will ensures your assets are distributed according to your wishes. If you are in a continuing care facility (DSL or LTC), a will helps ensure that bills, room and board, and other financial obligations are handled smoothly. A basic will can be prepared through a lawyer ($300-$800), a notary, or online services — but for complex estates (property, beneficiaries in other provinces), professional legal advice is recommended.

Key conversation starters for families:

"If you were very sick and couldn't speak for yourself, what would matter most to you?"

"Is there a point where you'd say 'enough is enough'? What does that look like for you?"

💡 Having this conversation is the gift. The document is just the record of it.

Your navigation roadmap after a diabetes diagnosis:

📖 For clinical information about diabetes, visit myhealth.alberta.ca → Health A-Z → Diabetes.

Navigating the surgical pathway in Alberta:

💡 If your surgery is cancelled or rescheduled, ask: "Will I keep my place in the queue, or do I restart?"

Your pregnancy navigation roadmap in Alberta:

🧠 Postpartum depression is common and treatable. If you're struggling, call Access Mental Health: 1-877-303-2642. No referral needed.

What it is: AHCIP (Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan) is Alberta's public health insurance. It covers doctor visits, hospital care, and medically necessary services. You must register — it is not automatic.

How to register: Visit any Alberta Registry Agent office (the same place you get a driver's licence). Bring:

✅ Valid government-issued photo ID (passport, PR card, or driver's licence)

✅ Proof of Alberta residency (lease, utility bill, or bank statement)

✅ Immigration documents (if applicable — work permit, study permit, PR confirmation)

Timeline: Coverage begins on the first day of the third month after you establish residency. Example: Arrive January 15 → coverage starts April 1.

During the waiting period: Keep your previous province's health card active if moving from within Canada — most provinces provide interim coverage. If arriving internationally, you need private travel/health insurance to cover the gap. Ask your employer if they provide interim coverage.

💡 Your AHCIP card is a blue card with a Personal Health Number (PHN). Guard this number — you'll need it at every appointment.

Key rule: You must register with AHCIP within 3 months of moving. Do this early — don't wait.

Your old health card: Cancel your previous province's health plan once AHCIP is active. Running two provincial plans simultaneously can cause billing problems.

Your prescriptions: Alberta pharmacists can transfer prescriptions from other provinces. Bring your medication bottles or a list of medications to any pharmacy and ask: "Can you transfer my prescriptions from [Province]?"

Your medical records: Request a copy of your records from your previous doctor before you leave if possible. Your new Alberta doctor can also request them, but it's faster if you bring a copy.

Finding a doctor: See our Unattached Patient Playbook — finding a family doctor in Alberta can take time, so start this process immediately.

Who qualifies for AHCIP: Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and some temporary residents (work permit holders of 12+ months, certain study permit holders). Visitors and tourists do NOT qualify.

International students: Some post-secondary institutions provide group health plans. Check with your school's international student office first. Some study permit holders may qualify for AHCIP depending on permit length.

Temporary Foreign Workers: Work permit holders with permits of 12 months or longer typically qualify. Register as soon as you arrive to start the 3-month clock.

Vaccinations: Alberta may require certain immunizations for school enrollment (children) and some workplaces. Bring your vaccination records. A public health nurse can review your records — call 811 and ask for immunization services.

Language: Health Link 811 provides interpretation in over 240 languages. When you call, say: "I need an interpreter for [language]." This is free.

Refugee claimants waiting for their claim to be processed are covered by the Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP), not AHCIP.

What IFHP covers: Basic healthcare, hospital services, lab tests, prescription medications, prenatal/maternity care, mental health crisis support, and immunizations.

How it works: You receive an IFHP certificate. Bring this to appointments instead of an Alberta health card. Not all doctors accept IFHP — call ahead and ask: "Do you accept Interim Federal Health Program coverage?"

Finding IFHP providers: Call 211 or immigrant-serving organizations in your city. Key organizations:

📍 Edmonton: Catholic Social Services, Edmonton Mennonite Centre for Newcomers, Multicultural Health Brokers

📍 Calgary: Calgary Catholic Immigration Society, Centre for Newcomers, Calgary Immigrant Women's Association

Once your claim is approved: If you become a permanent resident or protected person, you transition to AHCIP. Register immediately at a registry office.

Every ER in Canada uses CTAS — the Canadian Triage and Acuity Scale. This is why someone who arrives after you may be seen first. It's not first-come-first-served; it's based on medical urgency.

Why this matters: If you're a Level 4 and someone with chest pain (Level 2) arrives after you, they will be seen first. This is the system working as intended — it saves lives.

💡 If you're Level 4 or 5, consider whether a pharmacist, walk-in clinic, or urgent care centre could help you faster.

Must-haves:

✅ Alberta Health Care card (or your PHN written down)

✅ Current medication list (screenshot from MyHealth Records works)

✅ Photo ID

✅ Phone charger — you may be there a while

Strongly recommended:

✅ List of allergies

✅ Name of your family doctor or clinic

✅ A support person (advocate) if possible

✅ Any recent lab results or imaging (screenshot from MyHealth or MyChart)

✅ Water bottle and a snack (you may wait many hours)

✅ Comfort items (blanket, book, headphones)

For children:

✅ Favourite comfort object, snacks, entertainment

✅ Child's immunization history

✅ Children's fever reducer (Tylenol/Advil) in case the wait is long — ask triage nurse before giving

If your condition changes while waiting: Go back to the triage desk immediately and say: "My symptoms have changed since I checked in. [Describe what changed.] Can I please be reassessed?" You have the right to be re-triaged.

If you've been waiting a very long time: It's reasonable to go to the desk and ask: "Can you give me an estimate of how much longer the wait might be?" Be polite — the staff are managing many patients.

If you feel you're being dismissed: You can say: "I understand it's busy, but I'm concerned because [specific symptom]. I'd feel more comfortable if I could be reassessed."

Do NOT leave without telling someone. If you decide to leave, tell the triage nurse. If you leave without being seen, there's no follow-up — nobody will call you.

Your rights in the ER: You have the right to an interpreter, to a support person, to understand what's happening, and to refuse any treatment. See our Rights section.

Rule of thumb: If you're unsure, call 811 — a nurse will tell you whether you need ER or urgent care.

✅ Alberta Seniors Drug Coverage — You pay a 30% co-pay (max $25 per prescription). No premiums. You're automatically eligible at 65 if you have AHCIP. If you're not enrolled, ask your pharmacist or call Alberta Blue Cross: 1-800-661-6995.

✅ If a drug isn't on the benefit list, your doctor can apply for Special Authorization to get it covered.

This is where most people fall through the cracks. AHCIP does not cover outpatient prescription drugs for most working-age adults. Your options:

💊 Alberta Non-Group Coverage — A voluntary drug plan through Alberta Blue Cross. Monthly premiums based on income (some pay as low as $0). Co-pay is 30%. Apply through Alberta Blue Cross: 1-800-661-6995 or online.

💊 Alberta Adult Health Benefit — Prescription drug and dental coverage for low-income Albertans who are receiving: Alberta Works income support, the Alberta Child Health Benefit, or AISH. Ask your caseworker.

💊 Ask about generic alternatives. Tell your doctor or pharmacist: "Is there a generic version available?" Generics contain the same active ingredient and are typically 50-80% cheaper.

💊 Pharmacist medication review: Pharmacists can review all your medications for free and may find opportunities to switch to covered or cheaper options. Ask: "Can you do a medication review to see if there are more affordable options?"

✅ Alberta Child Health Benefit — Free prescription drug, dental, optical, and emergency ambulance coverage for children in low- and modest-income families. Apply through Alberta Works or check eligibility online.

✅ If your child has a chronic condition or disability, FSCD (Family Support for Children with Disabilities) may cover specialized medications. See our Kids & Youth section.

💊 Specialized High Cost Drug Program: Covers expensive drugs for serious conditions (cancer, MS, rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn's, HIV, hepatitis C, etc.) through hospital pharmacies. Your specialist initiates this — ask: "Is this drug available through the Specialized High Cost Drug Program?"

💊 Compassionate Supply / Patient Assistance Programs: Many pharmaceutical manufacturers offer free or reduced-cost medications for patients who can't afford them. Your doctor or pharmacist can help you apply. Ask: "Does the manufacturer of this drug have a patient assistance program?"

💊 Rare Disease Drug Coverage: Alberta has separate coverage for some rare diseases. Contact Alberta Blue Cross or your specialist.

💊 Medical expense tax credit: Prescription drug costs above a threshold can be claimed on your income tax return. Keep all pharmacy receipts.

💊 Trillium-style programs: Alberta doesn't have an equivalent to Ontario's Trillium Drug Program, but the Non-Group Coverage plan through Blue Cross is the closest option. Apply if you're paying out of pocket.

💊 Pharmacy discount programs: Some pharmacy chains (Costco, some independents) offer lower dispensing fees. You can ask any pharmacy: "What is your dispensing fee?" and shop around. You don't have to fill prescriptions at the same pharmacy as your doctor's office.

Alberta Children's Hospital (Calgary) and Stollery Children's Hospital (Edmonton) are dedicated pediatric emergency departments with staff specialized in treating children.

When to go to a pediatric ER: If your child needs emergency care and you're within reasonable distance, a pediatric ER is generally preferred — the staff, equipment, and medications are designed for children.

When any ER is fine: If the nearest pediatric hospital is far away and your child needs immediate care, go to the closest ER. All ERs can stabilize children and will transfer to a pediatric centre if needed.

Not sure? Call 811 — the nurse can help you decide where to go.

If you're concerned about your child's development (speech, motor skills, social skills, behaviour), don't wait — early intervention makes a significant difference.

Step 1: Talk to your family doctor or pediatrician. They can do developmental screening and make referrals.

Step 2: Contact your local Early Childhood Development (ECD) program — these are free and don't require a doctor's referral. Call 211 to find your local program.

Speech and language: Speech-language pathology services are available through many PCNs and community health centres. Wait times can be long — ask about interim resources while you wait.

Autism assessment: Talk to your doctor about a referral. Wait times for publicly funded assessment can be significant. Some families pursue private assessment to start earlier — ask your doctor about options.

Public health nurses in schools: Most schools have access to public health nurses who provide immunizations, health screening, and referrals. Ask the school office.

Immunizations: Alberta provides routine childhood immunizations through schools (Grade 5 and Grade 9). Parents receive consent forms beforehand.

School mental health: Many schools have mental health capacity through counsellors and community partnerships. Ask the school about available supports.

Inclusive education: If your child has a health condition affecting school, request an Individual Program Plan (IPP) through the school. This is a legal right under Alberta's Education Act.

Access Mental Health (AHS): Call 1-877-303-2642. Single point of entry for child and adolescent mental health services. No referral needed. They will assess and connect you to the right level of care.

Kids Help Phone:1-800-668-6868 (call), or text CONNECT to 686868. 24/7, bilingual, free. For kids, teens, and young adults.

211: Call 211 for local youth mental health programs, counselling services, and support groups.

What parents should know: In Alberta, minors who are capable of understanding their treatment can consent to their own mental health care. This means youth can access some services confidentially without parental consent. This is designed to protect youth who may not feel safe disclosing to parents.

Youth addiction: Contact Alberta's confidential Addiction Helpline: 1-866-332-2322 (24/7). Available for youth and parents.

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.

Wait times are published publicly. You have the right to ask your surgeon's office where you are in the queue.

Your right: Under the Alberta Human Rights Act, you have the right to healthcare free from discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression. This is law — not optional for providers.

Finding affirming providers:

📍 Calgary: Calgary Urban Project Society (CUPS), Clinic 554 (planned), Calgary Sexual Health Centre, Alex Community Health Centre

📍 Edmonton: Streetworks, Boyle McCauley Health Centre, Pride Centre of Edmonton (health navigation support), Sharpe Clinic

📍 Province-wide: Call 211 and ask for "2SLGBTQ+ affirming health services in my area."

How to screen a provider: When calling to book, you can ask: "Does this clinic have experience providing care to 2SLGBTQ+ patients?" or "Is Dr. [name] experienced with gender-diverse patients?" You don't have to disclose why you're asking.

If you experience discrimination: You have the right to file a complaint — see our Rights + Complaint Roadmap. For discrimination based on gender identity or sexual orientation, contact the Alberta Human Rights Commission: 780-427-7661.

Hormone therapy (HRT): In Alberta, hormone therapy can be initiated by your family doctor or a nurse practitioner — you do not necessarily need an endocrinologist referral, though some providers may refer. Ask your doctor: "Are you comfortable prescribing hormone therapy, or can you refer me to someone who is?"

Coverage: Hormone therapy medications are generally covered under standard drug benefit plans (employer, Alberta Blue Cross Non-Group, seniors coverage). Out-of-pocket costs vary. Ask your pharmacist about coverage options.

Gender-affirming surgery: Surgical referrals are coordinated through specialized clinics. Your family doctor or NP can start the referral process. Wait times can be significant. Key steps:

1. Discuss with your primary care provider

2. Get a referral to a gender clinic or experienced specialist

3. Assessment and readiness process

4. Surgical referral (some surgeries are performed in Alberta, others may require travel)

AHCIP coverage for surgery: Some gender-affirming surgeries are covered by AHCIP. Coverage eligibility involves clinical assessment. Your specialist's office will guide you through the approval process.

Name and gender marker changes: You can change your name and gender marker on your Alberta health card through a Registry Agent office. Alberta allows "X" as a gender marker option. Requirements have been simplified — check alberta.ca for current documentation requirements.

PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis): A daily medication that prevents HIV. Available by prescription from your family doctor, NP, or sexual health clinic. In Alberta, PrEP is covered for eligible individuals through Alberta Blue Cross and some employer plans. Ask your doctor: "I'd like to discuss PrEP. Can you prescribe it or refer me?"

PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis): Emergency medication taken within 72 hours of potential HIV exposure. Go to any ER and say: "I may have been exposed to HIV and need PEP." This is time-sensitive — the sooner you start, the more effective it is.

STI testing: Available at your family doctor, walk-in clinics, and sexual health clinics. Testing is covered by AHCIP. You can request testing without disclosing your orientation.

📍 Sexual health clinics:

Calgary: Calgary Sexual Health Centre (403-283-5580), Sheldon M. Chumir Centre

Edmonton: STI Clinic at Royal Alexandra Hospital, Options Sexual Health

Confidentiality: STI results and sexual health visits are protected health information under the HIA. They cannot be disclosed without your consent.

Trans Lifeline:1-877-330-6366 — Peer support hotline staffed by trans and non-binary people. Will not contact emergency services without your consent.

LGBT YouthLine:1-800-268-9688 — Peer support for 2SLGBTQ+ youth. Also available via text and chat at youthline.ca.

988 Suicide Crisis Helpline: Call or text 988. Available 24/7 across Canada. Free and confidential.

Access Mental Health:1-877-303-2642 — Alberta's single entry point for mental health services. No referral needed. You can request an affirming provider.

Community supports:

📍 Edmonton: Pride Centre of Edmonton — counselling, support groups, peer navigation

📍 Calgary: Calgary Outlink — mental health services, support groups, crisis support

📍 Province-wide: Skipping Stone Foundation — supports for trans and gender-diverse youth and families

Youth rights: In Alberta, youth who are capable of understanding their treatment can consent to their own healthcare, including mental health and sexual health services, without parental consent. This protects youth who may not feel safe disclosing to parents.

School supports: Alberta's School Act includes protections related to Gay-Straight Alliances (GSAs) and Queer-Straight Alliances (QSAs). Students have the right to establish these in schools.

Skipping Stone Foundation: Alberta-based organization supporting trans and gender-diverse children, youth, and their families. Provides navigation support, resources, and community.

PFLAG Canada: Support for parents, families, and friends of 2SLGBTQ+ people. Local chapters in Edmonton and Calgary offer peer support groups.

Family planning: 2SLGBTQ+ individuals and couples seeking fertility services, adoption, or surrogacy can contact Alberta fertility clinics to discuss options. Fertility treatments have specific coverage rules under AHCIP — ask your provider about what's covered.

You usually need a requisition (a lab order form) from your doctor, NP, or pharmacist with PRAC-ID before visiting a lab. Some exceptions exist for pharmacist-ordered tests.

Where to go:

🏥 DynaLIFE — One of Alberta's main community lab providers. Locations across the province. Many accept walk-ins; some require appointments. Book online at dynalife.ca or call 1-877-702-4486.

🏥 Calgary Lab Services (CLS) — Serves the Calgary Zone. Walk-in and appointment options.

🏥 Hospital labs — Available at most hospitals. Usually for urgent or inpatient tests. Longer waits than community labs.

Walk-in vs. appointment: Most routine bloodwork (CBC, lipids, A1c, thyroid) can be done as a walk-in at DynaLIFE. For fasting tests, arrive early morning. Specialized tests and 24-hour urine collections may require appointments.

What to bring: Your requisition form, your Alberta Health Care card, and photo ID. If fasting is required, your requisition will say so.

Getting results: Results go to the ordering provider, not directly to you. Use MyHealth Records to see your lab results online — often before your doctor calls.

All imaging requires a requisition from a doctor or NP. You cannot self-refer for imaging.

Walk-in imaging: X-rays at most hospital and community imaging sites accept walk-ins. Bring your requisition.

Appointment required: Ultrasound, CT, MRI, mammograms, and bone density scans require booking. Your doctor's office often books these for you, or gives you a requisition with a phone number to call.

How to book: Call the imaging facility listed on your requisition. For AHS facilities, wait times depend on urgency — your doctor marks the priority level. Private imaging clinics (like Mayfair Diagnostics in Calgary or EFW Radiology in Edmonton) may offer shorter waits but some services may cost out-of-pocket.

MRI wait times: Can be weeks to months through public facilities depending on urgency. See our Wait Time Navigator for strategies.

If you need medical equipment at home (walkers, wheelchairs, bath seats, crutches, hospital beds), there are options:

🔴 Canadian Red Cross Health Equipment Loan Program (HELP) — Free short-term loans of basic medical equipment. Call your local Red Cross branch or visit redcross.ca. Items include wheelchairs, walkers, bath benches, commodes, and crutches.

💰 Alberta Aids to Daily Living (AADL) — Government program that helps cover the cost of medical equipment and supplies for Albertans with long-term disabilities or chronic conditions. Requires an assessment by an authorized health professional. Call 780-427-0731 or 310-0000 (toll-free).

🏥 Hospital discharge equipment — If you're being discharged from hospital and need equipment at home, ask the occupational therapist or discharge planner before you leave.

Through your PCN: Many PCNs have dietitians on staff. Ask your family doctor for a referral, or call your PCN office directly.

Through 811: Health Link 811 has registered dietitians available by phone — free for all Albertans. Call 811 and ask to speak with a dietitian.

Community Diabetes Teams: If you have diabetes or prediabetes, AHS Community Diabetes Teams include both nurses and dietitians. Ask your doctor for a referral or call your local diabetes education centre.

Alberta Healthy Living Program (AHLP): Free workshops and one-on-one sessions for chronic conditions. Self-referral accepted. Call 811 to find AHLP programs near you.

Through your PCN: Most PCNs employ counsellors, psychologists, and social workers. Often 6-12 free sessions available. Ask your doctor or call your PCN.

Access Mental Health: Province-wide intake line. No referral needed. Call 1-877-303-2642. See our Mental Health Navigation guide.

Hospital social workers: If you are in hospital, ask to speak with a social worker for discharge planning, financial concerns, or community service connections.

Public (free through AHS): Physiotherapy and occupational therapy are available through AHS for post-surgical rehab, stroke recovery, and chronic conditions. Requires a referral from your doctor. Wait times vary.

Through your PCN: Some PCNs offer physiotherapy or exercise programs. Ask your PCN office.

Private: Walk-in or booked appointments at private clinics. Typically $80-150/session. Often covered by employer benefits. No referral needed for private physio.

Alberta Healthy Living Program: Free exercise and chronic disease management programs available province-wide through AHS.

Children: Free speech-language assessments and therapy available through AHS or your school board. Ask your child's teacher or pediatrician for a referral.

Adults: AHS provides speech-language pathology for stroke, brain injury, and swallowing disorders (usually hospital-based or home care). Requires doctor referral.

Private: Available without referral. $100-175/session typically. May be covered by employer benefits.

Step 1: Call the Addiction Helpline (1-866-332-2322). They'll do a phone assessment and connect you to the right level of care.

Step 2: You may be referred to:

🏥 Detox / Withdrawal Management — Medical supervision during withdrawal. Available in Edmonton, Calgary, and regional centres.

🏠 Residential treatment — 28-90 day live-in programs. Publicly funded options exist (e.g., Poundmaker's Lodge near Edmonton, Alberta Adolescent Recovery Centre in Calgary).

👥 Outpatient programs — Day programs and regular counselling sessions while living at home.

💊 Opioid Agonist Therapy (OAT) — Methadone, suboxone, and other medication-assisted treatments. Available through clinics across Alberta.

You can also walk into any ER if you are in crisis or experiencing dangerous withdrawal symptoms.

Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) — Free meetings across Alberta. Visit aa.org to find meetings near you.

Narcotics Anonymous (NA) — Free meetings. Visit na.org or call 1-866-258-6830.

SMART Recovery — Science-based (CBT) peer support program. Secular alternative to 12-step. Meetings available in Calgary, Edmonton, and online.

Al-Anon / Alateen — Support for family members and loved ones of people struggling with addiction. al-anon.org

Recovery Dharma — Buddhist-inspired, peer-led recovery program. Growing presence in Alberta.

Wellbriety is a culturally grounded addiction recovery movement that merges 12-Step principles with the teachings of the Medicine Wheel. It sees Indigenous culture as both preventative and restorative. Open to Indigenous and non-Indigenous people alike.

Where to access Wellbriety in Alberta:

🏠 Alpha House (Calgary) — Offers Wellbriety sessions within its detox and recovery programs. Indigenous programming includes Sweat Lodge ceremonies, Drumming Circles, Sharing Circles, and access to Elders.

🏠 Safe Harbour Society (Red Deer) — Wellbriety-certified. Offers smudging, individual and family support, monthly sweats, and Wellbriety groups.

🏠 Simon House Recovery Centre — Offers four recovery pathways including Wellbriety alongside 12-Step, SMART Recovery, and Dharma Recovery.

🏠 Poundmaker's Lodge (near Edmonton) — Indigenous-led treatment centre with cultural programming. Fully government-funded.

🏠 Sunrise Healing Lodge (Calgary) — Long-established Indigenous-led treatment provider.

For more Indigenous-specific resources, see our Indigenous Health Navigation guide.

Who needs it: Everyone with a cervix aged 25-69, every 3 years — or starting 3 years after first sexual contact, whichever is later. Optional screening is available from age 21-24 based on informed patient choice. For ages 50-69, Alberta is transitioning to HPV primary screening (every 5 years) as of late 2025.

Where to go: Your family doctor, NP, or a sexual health clinic. Some PCNs offer cervical screening clinics. Walk-in clinics can also perform Pap tests.

Self-collection: Alberta is transitioning to HPV self-collection testing, which will allow you to collect your own sample. Ask your provider about availability.

No doctor? Call 811 to find a screening clinic near you, or visit a sexual health clinic (no referral needed).

Alberta Breast Cancer Screening Program: Mammograms every 2 years for those aged 45-74. You can self-refer (no doctor required) by calling Screen Test at 1-800-667-0604 or booking through a radiology clinic.

Ages 40-44: You can be screened, but you need a referral from your healthcare provider for your first mammogram. After that first screening, you can self-refer for future mammograms.

High risk? If you have a family history of breast cancer or carry BRCA gene mutations, you may qualify for earlier and more frequent screening (including MRI). Talk to your doctor about a referral to a high-risk breast screening program.

First steps when pregnant: See your family doctor or NP to confirm pregnancy and start prenatal care. They'll order initial bloodwork and an early ultrasound.

Midwifery: Alberta midwives are fully funded through AHCIP. Midwives provide complete prenatal, birth, and postpartum care. Can deliver at home, in birth centres, or in hospital. Find a midwife through the Alberta Association of Midwives (albertamidwives.org) — register early, as waitlists fill quickly.

No family doctor? Virtual clinics can provide prenatal care, or call 811 to find a maternity clinic accepting patients. Low-risk pregnancies can be fully managed by a midwife.

High-risk pregnancy: Your doctor or midwife will refer you to an obstetrician or maternal-fetal medicine specialist.

Prenatal classes: Available free through AHS public health, your PCN, or community health centres.

Who to see: Start with your family doctor or NP. Most menopause symptoms can be managed in primary care. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can be prescribed by your family doctor — you do not necessarily need a gynecologist.

If symptoms are complex: Ask for a referral to a gynecologist or a menopause clinic. The Mature Women's Centre at some AHS sites provides specialized care.

Pharmacist help: Pharmacists can prescribe for some menopause-related symptoms (vaginal dryness treatments, sleep aids). See our Pharmacist Advantage guide.

Contraception: Available from your doctor, pharmacist (pharmacists can prescribe birth control directly), or sexual health clinics. Emergency contraception (Plan B) available without prescription at any pharmacy.

Sexual health clinics: Calgary Sexual Health Centre (403-283-5580), STI clinics at Royal Alex (Edmonton). Confidential. No referral needed.

Fertility services: Referral from your doctor to a fertility clinic (Regional Fertility Program in Calgary, Fertility & Womens Health Centre in Edmonton). IVF is not covered by AHCIP — costs are out-of-pocket or through private insurance.

Maternal mental health: Postpartum depression and anxiety are common and treatable. Call Access Mental Health (1-877-303-2642) or speak to your doctor/midwife. AHS Perinatal Mental Health programs are available in some areas.

Children: Alberta has a publicly funded immunization schedule starting at 2 months. Administered at AHS public health clinics (free). Schools also run immunization programs for grades 5, 6, and 9. Check your child's records on MyHealth Records.

Adults: Flu shots (annual, free), COVID-19 boosters, shingles vaccine (Shingrix, for 50+, publicly funded), pneumonia vaccine (for 65+). Available at pharmacies and AHS public health clinics.

Where to go: Any pharmacy offering immunizations, or your AHS public health centre. Pharmacists can administer most routine vaccines — no appointment needed at most pharmacies.

Catch-up schedules: If you missed childhood vaccines or are unsure of your immunization history, call 811 or your public health centre. They can access provincial records and create a catch-up plan.

Where to find outbreak information:

📌 alberta.ca/health — Official provincial health alerts and outbreak notices (measles, pertussis, etc.)

📌 AHS outbreak pages — albertahealthservices.ca posts facility-specific outbreak notices (e.g., flu outbreaks in continuing care homes)

📌 Health Link 811 — Call for up-to-date advice on active outbreaks and what to do if you've been exposed

📌 Public Health Agency of Canada — canada.ca/public-health for national alerts and travel health advisories

If you think you've been exposed to a reportable disease (measles, whooping cough, meningitis, etc.): Call 811 first. Do NOT go directly to a walk-in clinic or ER waiting room — call ahead so they can prepare and prevent further spread.